10 Easy Ways to Keep Indoor Air Clean! It’s Simple & Smart

It’s the time of year to keep your house sealed tightly to keep the cold out. However, the problem with a tightly sealed home is it also seals in the bad stuff. Did you know that toxins from cleaning supplies, mold and other nasty pollutants that can make you sick?

Is your house unhealthy? Improve your air quality by monitoring your home and improving indoor air quality with these 10 easy ideas. You’ll be healthier for it!

1.    Look for signs of pollutants– unusual odors; stuffy air; lack of air movement; dirty or faulty central air or heating units; excessive humidity; mold or mildew.

2.    Test for Radon- This naturally occurring, invisible and odorless radio-active gas is the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. Get a test kit at your local hardware store.

3.    Get a Carbon Monoxide Monitor -if you have a combustion appliance, including a gas water heater, gas stove or wood stove, or attached garage.

4.    Ventilate, Ventilate, Ventilate– Open windows as much as possible. Make sure your home has adequate ventilation- especially when using gas appliances.

5.    Clean with Nontoxic Products– Vinegar, baking soda, lemon juice and a few other natural chemical cleaners, and nontoxic cleaning supplies are available at health-food and grocery stores.

6.    Remove Your Shoes At the Door to avoid bringing outdoor pollutants inside.

7.    Replace Your Central Air And Heating Filters Monthly. Clean the vents and make sure they’re not blocked by furniture.

8.    Vacuum carpets, rugs and upholstery often to remove dust, pet dander and other pollutants. Wash throw rugs and doormats frequently.

9.    Eliminate as many moisture sources as possible by using dehumidifiers and exhaust fans to reduce risk of mold and mildew. Promptly clean and dry water-damaged carpet.

10.    Consider rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpet. Rugs are easier to clean, and natural fiber options are available.