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Indoor air quality is vital to maintaining a healthy living environment, especially when we spend so much time inside our homes. Poor air quality can cause health problems like allergies, asthma, and respiratory issues. By adopting a few simple cleaning habits, you can drastically improve the air you and your family breathe every day. Here are five essential cleaning practices to help boost your home’s indoor air quality.
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To Boost Indoor Air Quality, Vacuum and Dust Regularly
Dust, pollen, and pet dander are among the most common indoor allergens. Over time, they accumulate in carpets, on surfaces, and in the air, reducing the air quality in your home. Regular vacuuming and dusting help remove these harmful particles.
- Vacuuming: Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to trap dust, allergens, and fine particles. These filters capture up to 99.97% of particles, ensuring they don’t get recirculated into the air. Aim to vacuum at least twice a week, focusing on high-traffic areas, carpets, and rugs where allergens tend to settle.
- Dusting: Dust your home frequently with a damp microfibre cloth, which traps dust instead of dispersing it into the air like traditional dusters. Pay special attention to often-overlooked areas such as window sills, bookshelves, and ceiling fans.
By regularly vacuuming and dusting, you’re not just keeping your home clean—you’re actively preventing dust and allergens from affecting the air you breathe.
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Control Humidity to Prevent Mould and Mildew Growth
High humidity levels create an ideal environment for mould and mildew to thrive, which can significantly reduce indoor air quality. Mould spores, in particular, can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems when inhaled. To maintain a healthy indoor atmosphere, it’s important to control humidity levels.
- Dehumidifiers: Use a dehumidifier in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements to keep humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Lower humidity levels make it harder for mould and dust mites to survive.
- Ventilation: Properly ventilate areas prone to moisture, such as the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Ensure that exhaust fans are functional and that windows are opened regularly to let fresh air circulate.
By managing humidity levels in your home, you can prevent the growth of mould and mildew, keeping your air cleaner and healthier.
ou may also like: How to Combat Mould in Your London Home?
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To Boost Indoor Air Quality, Keep Your Air Ducts and Filters Clean
Your home’s air ducts and filters play a critical role in maintaining indoor air quality. Over time, dust, allergens, and debris can build up in air ducts and HVAC systems, circulating pollutants through the air. To keep your air fresh and free from contaminants, it’s important to clean and maintain these systems.
- Air Filters: Replace or clean your HVAC filters every three months. Filters trap dust, pet dander, and pollen, preventing them from re-entering your living space. If you have pets or live in an area with high pollution, consider replacing your filters more frequently.
- Air Ducts: Have your air ducts professionally cleaned every few years. Dust and debris can accumulate in ducts, affecting air circulation and quality. Regular cleaning ensures that the air being pushed through your vents is clean and free from pollutants.
A well-maintained HVAC system ensures cleaner, healthier air circulating throughout your home.
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Opt for Natural Cleaning Products to Reduce Indoor Pollutants
Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that can negatively affect indoor air quality. These chemicals can linger in the air and irritate the lungs, especially in those with respiratory conditions.
- Natural Cleaning Alternatives: Opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaning products that contain fewer harmful chemicals. Products made from natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils are just as effective for most cleaning tasks and don’t release harmful pollutants into your home’s air.
- Air Fresheners: Avoid using artificial air fresheners, which can contain VOCs and other toxic chemicals. Instead, opt for natural air purifiers such as plants or simmer pots using citrus and herbs to keep your home smelling fresh without compromising air quality.
Switching to natural cleaning solutions not only makes your home a healthier space but also contributes to long-term improvements in indoor air quality.
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To Boost Indoor Air Quality, Regularly Wash Bedding, Curtains, and Soft Furnishings
Soft furnishings like bedding, curtains, and upholstery can trap dust, pet hair, and other allergens, which can then be released into the air. These items are often overlooked during routine cleaning but play a key role in maintaining good indoor air quality.
- Bedding and Linens: Wash bedding, pillowcases, and linens weekly in hot water to eliminate dust mites, pollen, and other allergens. For those with allergies, using allergen-proof covers on mattresses and pillows can offer additional protection.
- Curtains and Upholstery: Dust and vacuum curtains, sofas, and other soft furnishings regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and allergens. If possible, choose machine-washable curtains or steam-clean upholstery to maintain cleanliness.
By regularly washing and maintaining your soft furnishings, you can effectively reduce the build-up of allergens in your home, helping to keep the air fresh and clean.
Final Thoughts
Improving indoor air quality is not just about investing in air purifiers or ventilation systems. By adopting these simple cleaning habits—regular vacuuming, dusting, controlling humidity, maintaining HVAC systems, using natural cleaning products, and cleaning soft furnishings—you can make a significant difference in the quality of air in your home.
And if home cleaning is not your cup of tea, you can delegate that task to a professional home cleaner. Feel free to contact us and request a cleaning quote. You can find more info about our cleaning services at Merci Cleaning London or on our official Facebook page.
You may also like: 5 reasons for hiring a professional house cleaner
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