When you think about pollution, what do you picture? The haze of smog on a skyline? Rivers washing up tin cans? Walking along city streets with cars blasting out exhaust fumes? Tick, tick, tick. But what about the air inside your home? Yep, your indoor space, the one you might consider a safe haven, could be filled with pollutants you’re completely unaware of. The bad news? These pollutants can have a serious impact on your health and well-being. But, once you know what you’re dealing with, there’s plenty you can do to improve the quality of the air you breathe indoors. Here is everything you need to know.

Indoor air pollution is caused by harmful contaminants that build up inside. Apartments, detached homes, office blocks, retail stores…indoor pollutants are everywhere. And they massively affect the quality of the air you put into your lungs, every time you take a breath. Shocking, hey? These pollutants can seep in from outdoor sources, like traffic emissions that work their way in through windows. Plus there are indoor sources, such as cleaning chemicals or common household building materials.

Unlike outdoor air, which has the freedom to disperse, indoor air is often trapped, creating a perfect environment for pollutants to build up. Given that most of us spend roughly 90% of our time indoors, it’s crucial to understand what’s circulating in the air around us.

Not all indoor air pollution is obvious, and some of the biggest offenders are completely invisible. Here are the most common pollutants that might be lurking in your home, and how they can affect your health.

1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are gases emitted by a wide range of household products, including cleaning supplies, paints, furniture, and even air fresheners (oh, the irony!). These compounds can cause short-term symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or irritation to your eyes, nose, or throat. Prolonged exposure, however, has been linked to more severe consequences like damage to the liver or kidneys.

How to reduce VOC exposure:

• Opt for low-VOC or VOC-free products whenever possible.
• Use natural cleaning products or make your own at home using ingredients like vinegar or baking soda.
• Air out freshly painted rooms or new furniture before occupying the space.

2. Mold and Mildew

If you’ve noticed musty smells or mysterious dark spots on your walls or ceilings, you may be dealing with mold. Mold thrives in damp conditions and releases airborne spores that can trigger allergies, asthma attacks, or other respiratory conditions.

Checking mold in the air in your house can be done in various ways:

• Perform a visual inspection of your walls, ceilings, and areas prone to moisture like bathrooms or basements.
• Look out for peeling paint, water stains, or discolored patches.
• Invest in mold testing kits or hire professionals for a more in-depth analysis if you suspect a problem.

You can address mold issues by keeping humidity levels in your home below 50% by using dehumidifiers. Fix leaking pipes or any water damage promptly. For larger mold infestations, it’s best to consult experts.

3. Carbon Monoxide (CO)

Colorless, odorless, and potentially deadly, carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous pollutants you could face indoors. It’s released when fuels like gas, wood, or coal are burned. Malfunctioning appliances like gas stoves, heaters, or fireplaces are common culprits.

Mild exposure to CO can lead to headaches, fatigue, or nausea, while high levels can cause confusion, dizziness, or even death.

How to protect yourself:

• Install carbon monoxide detectors in key areas of your home, especially near bedrooms and living spaces.
• Ensure appliances like stoves or boilers are properly maintained and serviced regularly.
• Never use fuel-burning devices like portable generators indoors.

4. Particulate Matter (PM)

Particulate matter refers to tiny airborne particles, such as dust, dirt, or smoke, that can settle in your home and cause problems when inhaled. This includes even smaller particles from cooking, burning candles, or using a fireplace.

There are various health risks associated with PM exposure. These particles can irritate your respiratory system, worsen asthma, and, in extreme cases, lead to long-term cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases.

Simple steps to minimize particulate matter:

• Keep your home well-ventilated, especially while cooking.
• Regularly vacuum and clean surfaces to reduce the buildup of dust and allergens. Consider a vacuum with a HEPA filter for optimal results.
• Avoid smoking indoors or using candles excessively.

5. Pet Dander and Hair

If you’ve got furry friends at home, pet dander and hair could also compromise your air quality. Pet dander consists of tiny skin flakes that shed from animals, and it can trigger allergies or exacerbate respiratory issues.

What you can do:

• Brush and bathe your pets regularly to minimize shedding.
• Create designated pet-free zones in your home, especially bedrooms.
• Use air purifiers to help capture dander and allergens.

How to Test and Improve Your Indoor Air Quality

Testing your indoor air quality is simpler than you may think. Here’s what you can do to assess the situation and make improvements.

First off, there are DIY testing tools, and several affordable indoor air quality monitors are available on the market. These devices can measure pollutant levels such as VOCs, PM, and even carbon monoxide.

For mold-specific concerns, over-the-counter mold testing kits can help you identify the presence of spores.

If you’re unsure about your findings or want a more comprehensive test, consider hiring a professional indoor air quality assessor. They’re equipped to identify issues that you might miss on your own.

Investments that matter:

• Air Purifiers: Look for purifiers with HEPA filters that are designed to capture even the tiniest particulate matter and allergens.
• Dehumidifiers: These reduce moisture levels, which can prevent mold growth and make your home less hospitable to dust mites.
• Ventilation Systems: An energy-efficient ventilation system can bring in fresh outdoor air and expel stale indoor air.

Think of the air in your home as an invisible lifeline. While you can’t see it, it can have an enormous impact on your health and happiness. Armed with this knowledge, you now have the tools to tackle indoor air pollution, create a healthier environment, and truly enjoy your home. Your next steps? Take inventory of potential pollutants, test your air quality, and start with small, practical changes like using natural cleaning products or investing in an air purifier.