Home Basics - Clean Air

Indoor Air Pollutants & Natural Alternatives

These pollutants are all found in the home, but can be easily avoided, as there are effective natural or "soft chemistry" alternatives available.

Air Fresheners

These synthetic fragrances disguise bad smells by releasing a chemical that coats the nasal passages with a film of oil, or deadens the olfactory nerves. Plug-in air fresheners have been found to emit a suite of chemicals, some of which react with ozone (which comes into our homes from outdoors) and react to cause byproducts that are toxic.
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Scientists found that on smoggy days, ozone in the air can react with the chemicals in air fresheners to create formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

The key to freshening air is to remove or dilute the offending odor (by cleaning, ventilation or absorption), not to cover it with another chemical.

• Baking soda in an open container will absorb odours in enclosed spaces.
• Simmer water and cinnamon or other spices on stove.
• Place bowls of fragrant dried herbs and flowers in room.
• Scented Candles.
• Zeolite crystals are pieces of minerals that are proven to absorb many toxic gases, such as formaldehyde, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, as well as many strong and bad odors.

Aerosol Sprays

These emit a fine mist that is easily inhaled and contain CFC's, which damage the ozone layer. Use pump-action sprays as an alternative.

Cleaning Products

Sodium hydroxide is found in dishwashing liquids, laundry products and tile cleaners. 2-butoxyethanol is found in All-purpose cleaners, degreasers, floor polish, rug shampoos, toilet bowl cleaners and window cleaners. So use natural products like vinegar and baking soda. Use the cleaning products which do not have hazardous warnings on their labels.
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Home Heating

Gas heaters emit carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other combustion pollutants, so make sure they are well vented.

Open wood fires indoors can emit benzopyrene, so make sure that it is also well vented.

Homes heated by Radiant electric heaters or systems have lower levels of pollution than those heated by other methods. But hot air can dry out the atmosphere, causing sore throats as well as damage wood furniture and plants.

To improve air humidity, place bowls of water close to the radiators to keep humidity levels between 30-50 per cent. This level is best for controlling biological contaminants.

Minimizing Damp

Damp, mould spores and airborne bacteria are common in poorly ventilated homes. Counteract them by installing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Cover saucepans while cooking and open windows to let steam escape.

Carpets

Carpets hold on to dirt and toxins. Use carpets made with natural materials like wool as they are better than synthetics. Use a vacuum with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter, a dirt sensor and a light that lets you know when all the particles from a patch of carpet are vacuumed.

NEXT: Purify the Air in your home with House Plants

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