5 Surprising Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
Posted on February 17th, 2016 by Devine Bros
If you are a regular reader of our blog, you know that indoor air pollution is nothing to sneeze at – no pun intended. Poor indoor air quality affects more than 90% of North American homes, and is linked to some serious health problems such as heart disease and lung cancer.
Unfortunately, many household goods can contribute to indoor air pollution, including everyday products that most of us think are completely safe. Here are five surprising sources of indoor air pollution.
#1: Air Fresheners
Despite their name, air fresheners don’t freshen your air at all; they actually pollute it with a plethora of harmful chemicals. Even products marked as “all natural” or “unscented” likely contain phthalates, which are known to cause health problems.
#2: Cigarette Smoke
By now we are all aware of the dangers of firsthand and secondhand smoke – but what about thirdhand? Yes, thirdhand smoke is real, and so are the dangers of it. Thirdhand smoke occurs when toxic particles from cigarette smoke settle onto surfaces in your home and remain long after the smoking has ceased.
#3: Cleaning Products
Look under your sink and you will find hundreds, if not thousands of toxins that you are exposing yourself to on a regular basis. Nearly all cleaning products pose some sort of health risk, from glass cleaner to laundry detergent. Instead of using store-bought products, use a combination of vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and salt to make your own homemade solutions.
#4: Candles
Who doesn’t love burning a candle every once in a while? They fill your home with that sweet-smelling aroma… and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Opt for soy and beeswax candles instead; they may be a little more expensive, but they are much safer.
#5: Carpeting
New or old, carpets can contribute to your homes air quality problem. New carpets release formaldehyde into the air, and old carpets can harbor dust mites, pet dander, mold, and even pesticides. Instill a strict no-shoes policy at home and vacuum regularly to keep your carpets clean.
If you are worried that your home’s air may be polluted, take action! Our experts will come into your Connecticut home and use professional testing devices to determine the quality of your air. If you live in Norwalk, CT or the surrounding area, give us a call today at (203) 866-4421.