Indoor air quality is important for everyone, especially if you have asthma and allergies. You can improve your indoor air quality by reducing the sources of allergens and irritants in your home.

If indoor air becomes more polluted, it needs to be replaced with clean outdoor air every few days. Otherwise, allergens, smells, and pollutants will recirculate throughout your home. Because newer, more energy-efficient homes don’t have the same gaps and cracks as older homes, there’s less air circulation.

Indoor air can have allergens like dust, pet dander, and mold. If your home has a higher humidity level this can lead to more dust mites. Particles are released into the air by furnaces, wood-burning fires, and candles. Cooking sends oil and fat particulates into the air. Newly installed floors and furniture can release chemicals.

Here are ways you can reduce the sources of allergens and irritants throughout your home:

• Establish regular cleaning routines.

• Measure your home’s humidity levels and keep below 50%. If you live in a wet climate, you may need a dehumidifier.

• Keep windows closed during peak pollen times or during times of high outdoor pollution.

• Remove strong scents like candles and harsh cleaners. Replace traditional scented candles and potpourri with unscented battery-powered ones

   

"We take about 20,000 breaths each day and spend 90% of our time indoors. Reducing exposure to substances in the environment around us that trigger allergy and asthma symptoms is important. Eliminating these indoor triggers is a great place to start.” – Kenneth Mendez, CEO and president of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America