Pollution at home

My friends and family think I’m crazy because, although I feel the cold, every morning I open the back doors to the garden and my windows to air the house through.   Having read the attached article, it really made sense to me, and I would like to share some of this with you:-

When it is bitterly cold outside the temptation is to bunker down at home, block out any draughts and do everything possible to stop that expensive heat escaping.  However, this means indoor air pollution tends to be particularly bad at this time of year, more than three times worse than outdoor air pollution, according to a 2019 study by the UK air pollution campaign, Clean Air Day.

One of the main sources of indoor air pollution is VOCs, volatile organic compounds, which are chemicals that leech out of cleaning products, furniture and paint.   They linger in the air and we breathe them in – this can lead to headaches, as well as irritation to our eyes, nose and throat.

If your house is [poorly ventilated, there is also the risk of mould, which releases spores into the air that can rigger respiratory infections, allergies and asthma.    If you have pets, poor ventilation puts you at risk from pet dander (tiny flecks of skin which come off cats and dogs that can rigger allergies), which can also provoke allergic reaction.

The worst villain, however, are indoor fires.  According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, wood burners produce more of this dangerous form of air pollution than all of the UK’s road traffic put together.   They emit huge amounts of tiny carbon and tar particles, called PM (particulate matter), which are so small they get into our lungs.   Try using smoke-less fuel, which emits up to 75% less PM.

Here are a few things you can do to reduce your own exposure to indoor air pollution:-

Open windows – if you do not live near a busy road.  Opening windows to let in fresh air in is generally a good idea.   Switch on Extractor fans when cooking.   If you have an extractor fan or hood, use them when you are cooking – regardless of what you’re cooking or for how long.  They’re a more effective way to get rid of cooking fumes than opening a window.   Steer clear of air freshener.   It is a good idea to avoid using synthetic air fresheners and scented candles as these release lots of VOC, which can irritate the eyes, notes and throat, and are particularly bad for those with asthma.   Lighting an old-fashioned match in a bathroom neutralises any bad odours.   Use a dehumidifier if you have any damp.   Clean regularly.   Carpets can trap dust and. If u have pets, lots of pet dander.  The best way to keep levels down is to vacuum frequently and give your pet a regular wash.   Buy house plants.  There is evident that plant leaves can absorb indoor air pollution, while microbes in the soil also break down pollutants.   Recommendations are for Snake plant, Spider or Peace lily.