The hidden dangers of poor indoor air quality

Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly impacts our health, comfort, and well-being. Surprisingly, the air inside our homes can be more polluted than outdoor air, leading to various health issues. Understanding these hidden dangers is crucial for creating a healthier living environment.

Understanding indoor air pollutants

Indoor air pollutants are substances that contaminate the air within buildings. Common indoor pollutants include:

• Particulate matter (PM2.5): Fine particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing respiratory issues.
  
  
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): Emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids, VOCs are found in household products like paints, cleaners, and disinfectants.
  
  
• Mould and mildew: Fungi that thrive in damp environments, releasing spores into the air that can trigger allergic reactions. Excess humidity accelerates their growth, making proper moisture control essential. Using a moisture absorber can help keep enclosed spaces dry, reducing the risk of mould formation.
  
  
• Carbon monoxide (CO): A colourless, odourless gas produced by burning fossil fuels, which can be lethal at high concentrations.

Health implications of poor IAQ

Exposure to indoor air pollutants can lead to immediate and long-term health effects:

• Respiratory issues: Inhalation of pollutants like PM2.5 and mould spores can cause or exacerbate conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory diseases.
  
  
• Cardiovascular problems: Fine particulate matter can enter the bloodstream, contributing to heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues.
  
  
• Neurological effects: Certain VOCs and CO exposure have been linked to headaches, dizziness, and cognitive impairments.
  
  
• Cancer risk: Long-term exposure to specific indoor pollutants, such as formaldehyde and radon, increases the risk of developing cancer.

Sources of indoor air pollution

Common sources contributing to poor IAQ include:

• Household products: Cleaning agents, paints, and adhesives often emit VOCs.
  
  
• Cooking and heating: Gas stoves, fireplaces, and unvented space heaters can release CO and nitrogen dioxide.
  
  
• Building materials: Asbestos, formaldehyde-containing pressed wood products, and certain insulation materials can emit harmful pollutants.
  
  
• Outdoor air infiltration: Pollutants from vehicle emissions and industrial activities can enter homes through ventilation systems and open windows.

Mitigating poor indoor air quality

To improve IAQ and safeguard health:

• Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation by using exhaust fans and opening windows to allow fresh air circulation.
  
  
• Air purification: Use air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to reduce airborne particles.
  
  
• Humidity control: Maintaining indoor humidity levels between 30-50% is crucial to prevent mould growth and dust mite infestations. Using a high-quality, refillable moisture absorber can effectively regulate excess moisture, especially in wardrobes, bathrooms, and storage spaces.
  
  
• Regular cleaning: Dust and vacuum frequently to minimise particulate matter and allergen accumulation. Pairing regular cleaning with moisture control (such as using desiccant beads refills) ensures long-term air freshness while preventing musty odours from developing.
  
  
• Use of low-emission products: Opt for household products labeled as low-VOC or VOC-free.

Conclusion

Awareness of the hidden dangers of poor indoor air quality is the first step toward creating a healthier home environment. Beyond ventilation and air purification, managing excess humidity is a critical factor. Incorporating simple solutions like a moisture absorber into your home can make a significant difference in maintaining a fresher, healthier indoor atmosphere.

References:

1. World Health Organization. (2023). Household air pollution and health. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/household-air-pollution-and-health
   
   
2. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Indoor Air Quality. Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/indoor-air
   
   
3. Dyson. Indoor Air Quality: Causes, treatments and prevention. Retrieved from https://www.dyson.com/discover/insights/air-quality/indoor/causes-treatments-and-prevention
   
   
4. Savills. Indoor air quality: a health issue long overlooked. Retrieved from https://www.savills.com/impacts/market-trends/indoor-air-quality-a-health-issue-long-overlooked.html
   
   
5. Scientific.net. The Review on Significant Adverse Impact of Poor Indoor Air Quality on Human Health. Retrieved from https://www.scientific.net/AMR.931-932.749