How to limit indoor pollution?

Published on : 03 May 20213 min reading time
Several studies show that indoor air in offices and homes is generally more polluted than outdoor air, despite agricultural and automotive pollution. These pollutions would be included in many pathologies: allergies, cancers, respiratory diseases etc. So, what should we do to limit indoor pollution?

Air your home regularly

Ventilation is the first step to have a healthy indoor air. This small gesture allows you to preserve the air in your home. Ventilation allows the air to circulate and evacuate particles. One might think that one should keep the windows closed, especially when living in the city, in order to avoid pollution from car traffic. But on the contrary, it is ventilation that reduces indoor pollution in your home. Ideally, you should air your home for about ten minutes every morning and evening to allow regular air renewal. You can also ventilate the interior of the house: there must be good air circulation between the rooms in order to prevent pollutants from stagnating. If possible, leave your doors open or clear the openings under your doors. Ventilation systems should also be maintained regularly.

Dealing with humidity

It is one of the factors of indoor pollution in housing. A humid room accumulates many pollutants. In addition, it is an ideal place for mold to grow. You can measure the humidity in your home and if it is too high, take action to reduce it. According to the ADEME, the ideal humidity is between 40 and 60%. If you exceed these thresholds, air your home more regularly in order to evacuate the humidity, or use an ambient dehumidifier to absorb the humidity.

Use healthier equipment and products

Many household products and equipment contribute to indoor air pollution. Plastic materials, cleaning products, furniture, sofas, etc. Many of the products we use on a daily basis contribute to the release of volatile organic compounds and other pollutants. If possible, choose furniture that is made of natural materials, without synthetic glue rich in volatile chemical compounds and without paint. The same goes for your cleaning products: you should choose natural products. For example, it is better to use black soaps instead of complex cleaning products often containing several polluting compounds. It is also important to properly maintain your appliances in order to limit pollution (ovens, boilers, heaters, ventilation). Also clean the devices which use gas and the cooking appliances.