Most Common Air Pollutants At Home

You might think that the air that circulates inside your home is 100% pollution free? Well, think twice. There are things that pollute the air even if your home is located miles away from factories. Here are the most common source of pollutants in homes:

1. Electric fans – At a glance, it seems that the grills that cover the rotating pads collect dusts from air since, after a couple of days, particles are accumulated in that part of the electric fans. It’s true. But if the accumulated dusts come thicker, the electric fan reverses the process, spew the collected particles and distribute the dusts back to the air. And that’s where the pollution occurs. Remember that dust particles are harmful to humans when inhaled in quantity. Clean the grills of electric fans as often as possible. It lengthens its life and does the job in circulating the air effeciently.

2. Paint – It freshens the wall, door, or cabinet. But what the paint brings to you lungs and brain is the opposite. Paint fumes increase the risk of damage to your internal organs once inhaled. The air that contains volatile compounds, once inhaled, especially by children, might result to permanent brain damage. When storing paints, make sure to seal it tightly and place in cupboards beyond children’s reach. Avoid staying too long in a newly painted room.

3. Carpet – What’s wrong with carpet? It is obvious. The carpet collects dusts and other miniscule objects such as ticks, furs, wastes from pets, dusts and sands from shoes and slippers, and other unhealthy particles that can cause lung irritation or allergies. What is unnoticeable is the chemical that is used in the manufacture of carpets that might circulate in the air. The most common is formaldehyde. It can cause nasal irritation, trigger asthma attack and can damage the lungs, according to EPA study. Replace the carpet once in a while.

4. Sponges and other cleaning agents – Chemicals used in sprays, sponges, and cleanser can thoroughly eliminate hard stains that stick in tiles. But the truth of the matter, it also contains harmful substances with strong odor. Have you experience sanitizing your lavatories and toilet bowls using muriatic acid? That strong smell should be avoided by using gas mask. Do not attempt to stay in comfort rooms where the irritating smell of the muriatic acid is still present.