As the colder days arrive and the heating season begins, air quality becomes a key concern, especially in urban areas. While we may have limited control over outdoor air, we can take steps to improve the air quality inside our homes.
The start of the heating season affects indoor air quality in several ways. First, outdoor air quality tends to worsen, and experts agree on one thing: everything in the outdoor air finds its way indoors, in addition to pollutants originating inside the home.
Research from the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre shows that indoor air can be up to twice as polluted as outdoor air. Therefore, it’s important to ventilate your home regularly and monitor outdoor pollution levels. Try to air out your home when outdoor pollution is low to minimize indoor pollutants.
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Radiators also play a role in indoor air quality. When a radiator heats up for the first time after months of inactivity, dust collected inside it can be released into the room as an invisible cloud. To mitigate this, thoroughly clean radiators before the heating season starts.
Even once clean, radiators continue circulating air in a way that stirs up dust. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and carpet maintenance, or removing carpets altogether, can help reduce dust buildup.
When cooking, use your range hood and crack open a window on the opposite side of the room. This is especially crucial if you have newer, well-sealed aluminum or PVC windows, which can restrict airflow. Without some ventilation, even a range hood cannot function effectively in a tightly sealed space.
During the winter months, drying laundry indoors can be problematic. Many people dry clothes on radiators, but it’s best to avoid this if possible, for two reasons. First, the moisture from clothes contains detergent and fabric softener residues, which can affect air quality.
Second, drying clothes indoors increases humidity. If feasible, dry clothes on a balcony or in a separate room. Ideally, consider using a clothes dryer.
Limit the use of chemical cleaning products during the winter, or opt for natural alternatives like baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice. Also, avoid scented candles and decorative candles during colder months. Traditional paraffin candles are made from gas and oil by-products and release harmful substances when burned.
Safer alternatives include beeswax or soy wax candles, which produce fewer toxins. However, remember that all candles consume oxygen and produce carbon dioxide, so use them sparingly.
By following these tips, you can significantly improve the air quality in your home during the heating season and create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.