Five Unsuspected Sources Of Indoor Air Pollution
Talk about air pollution and our mind begins to swipe images of industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust. While these are the most common source of hazardous air particles, the leading cause of health issues is indoor air pollution.
The deteriorating quality of indoor air affects the health of children, aging people, and pets, as they spend most of their time indoors. The indoor air pollutants are so tiny that they easily hid in plain sight and are almost impossible to see with naked eyes. But their invisibility doesn’t mean, their presence won’t affect your health.
Here, we have curated a list of popular sources of indoor air pollution:
Carpets and Upholstery
Uncleaned curtains, carpets, and velvet upholstery allow dust and particulate matter to settle and make their home. In damp conditions, the excess moisture allows bacterial and fungal growth and cause a persistent odor.
Plastics and Electonic Equipment
Certain types of plastics, like Polyvinyl Chloride, emit harmful elements, such as Phthalates, that cause hormonal dysfunction. These are especially harmful to infants and the elderly. For this reason, it’s always suggested to check the plastic quality of products before you bring them home.
Paints and Varnishes
Most people give their home a new look with a coat of fresh paint every year. What they don’t know is paints, varnishes, and vinyl coatings emit volatile organic compounds upon drying that causes headaches and nausea.
Pet Dander and Hair
We love our four-legged furry friends. But pet dander and hair can trigger allergic reactions for people who have respiratory problems.
Cleaning Agents
Cleaning products that we use to keep our home clean cause indoor air pollution. When a home doesn’t have proper ventilation, the unseen chemical fumes remain indoors for a long time. Prolonged exposure to these harmful chemicals could irritate the nose, throat, and eyes.
The best remedy for indoor air pollution is installing air purification systems in homes and offices. High-quality air purifiers not only eliminate tiny air pollutants but also eliminate smoke and odor and make the air cleaner and safer to breathe.
