Did you know your home’s air quality can change with the seasons? While good indoor air is crucial for your health, these seasonal shifts can make it harder to maintain.
That’s why you need to know the strategies to put into practice to make sure you maintain quality at its highest, no matter the time of the year. This guide will share 5 easy strategies to get that right.
Spring Cleaning
Around 74% of Americans tackle dust and refresh their indoor air in spring. Here’s why: during winter, they keep windows closed more often. This can lead to trapping dust, pet dander, and other allergens. Spring is a time to fix the situation.
Ready to hop on the train? Here’s what you can do:
Grab a microfiber cloth, a sturdy vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter (HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air), and an all-purpose cleaner. You might also want to wear a mask if dust bothers you.
Start by removing clutter from shelves and surfaces. You can then move furniture to vacuum under, focusing on those forgotten corners. Don’t forget to tackle baseboards and cobwebs near the ceiling.
Wash bedding, curtains, throw pillows, and anything else that collects dust mites and pet dander in hot water. For furniture you can’t wash, use the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust and allergens.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle baking soda on cushions (let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up) to freshen them up and remove any lingering odors.
Change Air Filters Regularly
Dirty air filters don’t just bring health risks. They are also a money pit. Closed filters restrict airflow, forcing your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy. Experts say this can result in a 5% to 15% bump in your energy bills.
Even worse, they trap dust, pet dander, and allergens, re-circulating them back into your home. The solution? Swapping out your air filters regularly. This is a simple DIY task that can make a big difference in your indoor air quality.
Just check your owner’s manual or look near the filter compartment of your HVAC system to find the replacement type and size you need. If you’re uncomfortable with this approach, talk to HVAC experts. They’ll gladly help you with this and any other emergency heating and cooling issues you may have.
Increase Ventilation in Spring and Fall
Opening windows during these shoulder seasons (spring and fall) is a fantastic way to naturally ventilate your home and get rid of stale air and indoor pollutants.
Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Aim for cooler mornings or evenings when pollen counts are typically lower.
- If possible, open windows on opposite sides of your house to create a nice cross breeze that will get the air circulating. Don’t forget the kitchen and bathroom. Turn on exhaust fans when cooking or showering to remove moisture and pollutants from those areas.
- Weather woes? No problem. If it’s raining or too cold to open windows for long periods, even just cracking a window for a few minutes a couple of times a day can still help.
Pro tip: During high pollen seasons, keep windows closed in the morning when pollen counts are highest. You can still enjoy fresh air circulation by opening windows later in the day.
Monitor Humidity Levels
While a little humidity is good, too much moisture can lead to mold growth and dust mite problems. Aim for a sweet spot between 30% and 50% humidity for optimal indoor comfort and air quality.
To check and adjust humidity levels in your home, use a hygrometer. You can pretty much order one online or purchase one at most hardware stores.
Too humid? Dehumidify. Here’s a budget-friendly trick: place bowls filled with baking soda around the house to absorb excess moisture from the air. Just be sure to replace the baking soda regularly.
Houseplants for Improved Air Quality
Research shows that combining plants with ventilation can reduce levels of CO2 in the air by 76% and Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) by 87%.
Going for these leafy plants absorb pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene, common chemicals found in paint, carpets, and furniture. They also release oxygen, making your home comfortable and feel even fresher.
Here are some easy-to-care-for houseplants that are known for their air-purifying properties:
Snake Plant (Mother-in-law’s Tongue)
This popular succulent tolerates low light and watering.
Peace Lily
This elegant plant thrives in moderate light and humidity and boasts beautiful white flowers.
Spider Plant
A classic choice for beginners, spider plants are fast-growing and produce baby spiderettes that you can propagate for more greenery.
Golden Pothos
This versatile vine tolerates a wide range of light conditions and is known for its air-purifying prowess.
Pro tip: Group multiple air-purifying plants together for a maximized effect.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve explored these simple DIY strategies, you’re well on your way to creating a healthy and breathable home environment all year long. Remember, good indoor air quality is an investment in your health and well-being, and it can even save you money on energy bills. Feel free to call a professional if you have any concerns about the air quality in your home.