Nine out of 10 people globally are breathing poor quality air. Yet, oblivious to the dangers of indoor pollution, when we speak of pollution we only refer to outdoor pollution. Jayati Singh, Business Head, Air, Philips India adds, “Indoor air is 3-5 times more polluted than the outdoor air because it is a mix of outdoor pollution that comes in through windows and doors as well as indoor pollutants like dust, cooking fumes, allergens, incense, cigarette smoke and pet dander.”
According to a recent survey conducted by Artemis Hospital under the Clean Air India Movement, due to unhealthy indoor air quality, about 31 per cent of the survey respondents had some kind of airway disease and 46 per cent people were found to have symptoms suggesting a respiratory disease.
Dr Amol Kumar, Pulmonologist, from iCliniq says, “Indoor air pollution is wreaking havoc on the sleeping patterns of people, thus leading to multiple ailments. The right home air purifier can help us sleep better and prevent sinus and breathing problems as it will remove dust and allergens from the air and leave us breathing easier and even reduce snoring.”
Here are some easy ways to prevent your indoor air from getting worse:
Monitor indoor pollution
You can download a pollution mapping mobile application to monitor air inside your house. Also, keep your windows and doors closed in the wee hours and early morning, as that is the time when pollution is at its worst.
Use chimney to filter cooking fumes
Researchers have established that cooking fumes are cancerous and contribute greatly to contaminating indoor air. While cooking, always keep the exhaust fan on (and use chimney). Also, it is important to clean grease traps on regular intervals.
Avoid smoking indoors
Smoking is a big health hazard and it can permeate into your environment. So it’s best to avoid smoking indoors and you are also advised to wash your hands and face after smoking.
Keep air-purifying plants
Houseplants can help you purify indoor air. They absorb particulates in the air and then process it into oxygen via photosynthesis. Plants like chrysanthemum (Garden mum), spider plant, weeping fig and peace lily are some of the indoor plants you can consider keeping at your home.
Change bed linen regularly
Change your bed sheet and pillow covers at least twice a week and always use clean blankets. Regularly washing curtains is also a healthy practice to prevent indoor air pollution.
Clean your house well and prevent moisture since dust and mites strive on moisture. High moisture inside the house leads to mold growth and is also associated with respiratory issues. Use exhaust fan while cooking and even in the bathroom after shower; put the clothes’ dryer outside, don’t put too much water in houseplants and make sure there are no leaky plumbing to prevent mold. Get your electronic devices, especially air conditioners serviced regularly and use dehumidifier.
