Could your home use a breath of fresh air?
With more of life cent ered at home due to cool weather and social distancing, it's time to ensure the space where your family spends the majority of its time is healthy and safe.
What many people don't know is that concentrations of air pollutants can typically be up to five times higher inside o ne' s home t han o ut , a nd sometimes far more, accordi n g t o t h e E n v i r o n ment a l Protection Agency. However, there are many simple actions you can take to breathe better in your home:
Monitor carbon monoxide
This potentially deadly gas can be emitted by a f aulty gas-burning home appliance. Monitor for carbon monoxide using detectors placed in major areas of the home, especially the bedrooms.
Make the switch to VOC-free
Most p a i n t s a n d s t a i n s , along with aerosol sprays, air fresheners and other household products, contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which emit gases t hat can result in respiratory problems, headaches and irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, among other health problems.
Take a cue from forwardthinking institutions like the Getty Museum and Google and swap out conventional paints in your home interiors for an eco-friendly, non-toxic a l t e r n a t i v e s u c h a s E COS Paints. The brand, which has a 35-year history of offering VOC- and odor- free paints and s t ai ns i n vi r t uall y any color, uses sustainable ingredients and can deliver directly to a home or business.
To learn more, go to www. ecospaints.net.
“We want people t o f eel g o o d a b o ut what t he y a r e bri nging i nto t heir homes. This is why we are transparent about ingredients and VOC testing results,” says Julian Crawford, ECOS Paints CEO.
Keep airborne dust and moisture to a minimum
Dust carries a variety of contaminants, including bacteria and allergens. Mop and dust often, using a wet mop and dust cloth. Vacuum often, as well, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which traps small particles.
Moisture promotes mold, w h i c h c a n c a u s e s e r i o u s health problems when l ef t unabated. Reduce moisture by
eliminating sources of water leaks, installing exhaust fans i n kitchens, using air condi t i oning, a nd posi t i oning dehumidifiers in high-moisture rooms such as bathrooms, laundry rooms and basements.
Reduce airborne particles
Install an air purifier to trap irritating particles, including mold, pollen and pet dander, which are particularly bad for people with respiratory
problems like asthma. Brush pets often — outdoors if possible — and give pets regular baths.
Decrease dirty air
Replace HVAC filters regu l a r l y . Whil e t h e o p t i mal frequency that you perform this task depends on the type of filter, the number of pets at home and other factors, a good reference point is the manufacturer's guidelines.