5 Simple Ways to Improve Home Air Quality 

If you’re spending more time at home these days—working remotely or simply enjoying a cozy indoor lifestyle, you’re likely breathing in more of your home’s air than ever before. And while we often think of air pollution as an outdoor issue, indoor air quality can actually have an even bigger impact on our health.  

Indoor air is more polluted than outdoor: A report suggested that some pollutants may be 2 to 5 times and, on occasion, even 100 times higher indoors than outdoors. This impacts your respiratory health and overall well-being. 

The good news is that improving your home’s air quality doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple changes, you can reduce airborne pollutants and create a fresher, healthier environment inside your home.  

In this article, we will go through 5 effective ways and tips for improving home air quality and transforming your indoor environment. 

Change Your Air Conditioner (AC) Filter Regularly 

Air conditioners are more than temperature-maintainers in your home; they also remove dust and other small particles from the air. However, if the filter becomes clogged with dirt, the ventilation system cannot properly function, meaning those pollutants end up in your home environment.  

That’s why replacing your air conditioning filter at regular intervals is essential. A neat filter will improve the air quality in your home by ensuring the AC system is more effective. If you have allergies or live in a high-pollution area, consider changing your filter more frequently.  

For starters, keeping your filter fresh is one of the easiest ways to ensure cleaner air at home. As a precaution with your AC replacements, check the manufacturer’s guidelines for how often to replace it. However, a good rule of thumb is every 1-3 months. 

Control Humidity in Your Home 

Humidity might be great for your skin, but too much of it can be a problem indoors. High humidity levels create an ideal environment for mold buildup and dust mites, which can all trigger allergies and respiratory issues.  

Depending on where you live, summer months can mean higher humidity levels, so it’s worth investing in a dehumidifier to keep things under control. Aim for indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to minimize mold growth and make your home feel more comfortable. 

A humidifier might be necessary in the winter when the air is drier, as low humidity can irritate your skin and respiratory system. Striking a balance with the right humidity levels can make all the difference in the quality of indoor air and overall comfort.  

And if you need more clarification about the humidity in your home, a small, affordable hygrometer can help you monitor it. 

Carry out Regular Cleaning and Decluttering 

Dust and allergens can build up quickly, especially on carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Regular cleaning can make a noticeable difference in air quality.  

Start by vacuuming carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture weekly using a HEPA-filtered vacuum. These filters capture more allergens than regular vacuums, keeping them out of the indoor air. 

Decluttering also helps because piles of stuff create hiding spots for dust and dust mites. Don’t forget to check air ducts to see if there’s a visible dust buildup. Clean air ducts mean cleaner air circulating throughout your home, contributing to better air quality. 

Improve your Home Ventilation 

A well-ventilated home lets fresh air circulate and pushes out stale air, which can help reduce indoor pollutants. Open your windows and doors occasionally to let clean outdoor air in, but only if the outdoor air quality is good and low in pollen.  

You can also use the exhaust fans in your kitchen to help remove moisture and reduce the risk of mold and mildew. Proper ventilation also involves paying attention to your home’s HVAC system.  

Ensure you keep the vents and ducts clean and inspect any appliances that pull in outdoor air, such as a range hood or bathroom fan. Proper airflow improves your home’s air quality and creates a fresher, more comfortable living environment. 

Keep Outdoor Pollutants Outside 

Most home air pollution comes from outside—pollen, mold spores, and even vehicle exhaust can make their way indoors. Keeping these pollutants out starts with creating a barrier.  

For example, weatherstripping steel doors and sealing cracks around windows can help prevent outdoor pollutants from drifting inside. This will help improve air quality and make your home more energy-efficient by keeping cold or warm air from escaping. 

Another simple step is to create a “drop zone” by your entryways. Have a spot to remove shoes, hang up jackets, and leave bags before moving further into your home.  

This small habit can go a long way in keeping outdoor dirt, dust, and allergens from spreading through your living space. A doormat or shoe rack near the door is a simple hack for keeping outdoor pollutants outside. 

Final Thoughts 

Numerous factors impact the air quality in your home, each potentially affecting your health in the short and long term. If you’re concerned about your home’s air pollution, test the indoor quality to determine where to start.  

You can then focus on addressing specific pollutants and making simple changes to improve the air quality you breathe. These proactive steps will help create a safer, healthier home for you and your family.