How to Maintain Clean Air Quality at Home

It may seem cozy and warm to be sealed in tight, away from the cold of winter weather. However, for individuals who are sensitive to indoor allergens or those who have certain respiratory issues, winter may make their symptoms worse.

Stale indoor air along with constantly running heating systems can increase the number of mold spores, pet dander, and dust mites that circulate through a house. During the later months of winter and early spring, it is often still too chilly to open the windows and eliminate the musty air. While everyone waits for warmer weather to move in, there are a few things they can do to improve indoor air quality. From purchasing quality air filters from Filter King to keeping dust at a minimum, keep reading to learn some of the top steps to ensure good air quality inside any home.

Keep the House Clean

Usually, a clean house is a healthy house. Good indoor hygiene can help reduce animal dander and dust significantly. Cleaning efforts need to focus on strategies that help reduce the build-up of mold, dust, and pet dander that are lurking in the home.

To keep things clean, be sure to vacuum all rugs and carpeting one or two times per week. Be sure to use a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. Also, if possible, install hard-surface flooring, rather than carpeting. This can help reduce allergens in the home.

It is also necessary to clean drapes, bedding, and other items that are likely to attract allergens. This is especially important for homes with pets. It is necessary to wash items in water that is, at a minimum, 130 degrees Fahrenheit. It is also a good idea to use pillow covers that are dust mite proof and covers on box springs and mattresses to provide the same level of protection.

Keep Plants and Greenery Outside the Home

Even though indoor plants are nice to look at, they can also be the perfect location for mold to grow. If someone is dealing with allergies or asthma, keeping plants outside is best. While there are some plants that are known to help indoor air quality because they release oxygen, they can still be allergy triggers for several people.

Change the Air Filters

If a home uses a forced-air heating system, make sure to change the filters often. Electrostatic filters are best, as they can remove dust along with other airborne irritants from the air rather than recirculating these particles in the home. It may also be smart to have the home's air ducts cleaned, which will effectively remove dust that is trapped in the duct system. This is not always necessary, but it can help in some situations.

Install an Air Purifier 

If someone is allergic to indoor allergens and they are unable to control the problem's source, and if giving up the family pet is not an option, it may be a good idea to use an air purifier.

Taking the time to improve a home's air quality is something that will pay off in the long run. This is true for homes where people have allergies and locations where allergies are not an issue. Be sure to keep the tips here in mind to ensure the indoor living environment is safe and healthy for everyone.