One of our most frequently asked questions. As consumers become aware of how polluted air can affect health and wellness, they are seeking solutions to making the air in their homes more palatable.
If you are sensitive to allergies, you may already have looked at the quality of the air in your local neighborhood or region to see if that is what is causing your allergies to flare up. If you are mindful of the way we impact our environment, you might also be aware of local industries that pollute your area.
We all need clean air to breathe. We can’t survive without it. The most common air pollutants are ground level ozone, particulate matter (PM10 & PM2), nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide. In the home, dust, pollen, pet dander and VOCs (benzene, formaldehyde, etc).
How does air purification work?
Portable mechanical air purifiers filter air and remove contaminants and pollutants. Some of them are specially designed to remove pollen, dust, mould or pet dander. There are a few types of purifier or filter:
- High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters remove particles
- UV light filters kill bacteria and viruses
- Ionized filters cause static charge which makes dust cling to the nearest surface
- Activated carbon air filters remove chemicals (VOCs)
Easy ways to purify air naturally at home
Use an air purifier
Using an air purifier is easy. They simply need plugging in. And the filter needs changing regularly, but some models have filters that can last for years. The most important thing is finding the right air purifier to meet your needs. For example, what specific pollutants do you need to remove from your home? Choose a specialist air purifier for that problem.
When you buy an air purifier you need to calculate the space that it will be working in and the clean air delivery rate (CADR) of the air purifier that you plan to buy. The CADR is measured in cubic feet per minute. The higher the rate, the better the air purifier.
We have touched on filter replacement already. Filters need to be replaced as specified by the manufacturer of the air filter. This can be as often as every six months or as long as ten years. If they are not replaced, the efficiency of the air purifier will lessen and it may stop purifying the air altogether.
Use air purifying paint
Air purifying paints absorb the pollutants and neutralize them. They use zeolite silicate material to absorb toxins. And while we are on the subject of paints, always choose a low VOC paint when painting a room.
Improve ventilation
Simply opening windows and doors to let fresh air circulate can purify the air in a room that has been locked up for a long period. If you are unfortunate to live in a high pollution city or industrial environment, then this option is clearly not the best option.
Reduce humidity and prevent mold from forming by using an extraction fan in rooms where there are no windows. They are also useful in highly humid environments like bathrooms and kitchens. A dehumidifier will also help prevent mold forming. The ideal humidity to maintain is between 30% and 50%.
Reduce pollutants
While cleaning regularly can remove pollutants like dust and pet dander, be mindful of the cleaning products that you use in your home. Surprisingly, many cleaning products contain toxins. Choose eco-friendly, natural and non-toxic alternatives when cleaning your home.
Dusting and vacuuming regularly will remove particles of dust. Some vacuums are specially designed to help with pet hair or removing dust and have filters that can remove even fine particulates from the surface being vacuumed. They have HEPA filters and sealed bags for disposal.
Air purifying houseplants
Although it is beneficial to have green houseplants in your home to provide a natural feeling, it has been concluded by researchers that so called air purifying houseplants don’t actually clear the air (American Lung Association).
In 1989 NASA research found that plants can absorb carbon dioxide and remove VOCs. But that was in a sealed space station environment. More recent research has concluded that you’d need to fill your house with tens of thousands of plants to see the same beneficial effects.
I like houseplants, and I have many (too many some might say) of them, but that’s not a feasible or easy way to purify the air in your home. In fact, houseplants can accumulate dust and pollen, introduce mites, and mold can form on the soil of plants that have been incorrectly watered.
So, how can I purify air naturally at home?
Using a suitable and reliable air purifier system can purify the air in your home. Be sure to maintain the filter and replace it when necessary. Choose the right air purifier to meet the needs of your home and family.
Secondly, be aware of the toxins and pollutants in furniture, textiles and furnishings that you are allowing into your home. Choose eco-friendly, biodegradable and non-toxic materials and products whenever possible. Choose low VOC paints and finishes.
Finally, clean regularly and improve the ventilation in your home to allow fresh air to circulate. Use a specialist vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to remove particulates from the flooring, carpets and surfaces.