What Are The Pollutants Lurking In Your Home?
Homes with poor ventilation can become a breeding ground for a number of different pollutants that increase the burden of disease.
Around 81 per cent of people are at risk of suffering a respiratory or dermatological condition because of poor indoor air quality.
Fifty-eight per cent of people have experienced mould or condensation in their homes, increasing to 70 per cent among 25 to 34 year olds.
Mould spores, released in the atmosphere by damp spots on the walls, window frames and decaying foods are among the most common biological pollutants.
The increasing prevalence of dampness in homes has caused a rise in mould levels, which in turn increase people’s susceptibility to asthma and allergies.
Pollen can also be a pollutant in the home, usually brought inside when windows are left open or people walk through the house with shoes they have worn outside.
Meanwhile dander are tiny particles, which come from feathers, skin or hair and can also cause allergies.
Volatile organic compounds, found in everyday cleaning products, can trigger asthma.
They are commonly found in air fresheners, carpet cleaners, polish and oven cleaners.
| TOP TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HOME |
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| – Ventilate Make sure you have effective ventilation throughout your home. – Use eco friendly products Less toxins and pollutants are found in eco-friendly products, making the air fresher and cleaner – Roll with it Opt for roll on deodorant and beauty products rather than aerosol cans – Choose wood flooring Carpets harbour dust, dust mites, pet hair, fungus and other harmful particles – Unplug Switch off your technology when you’ve finished using them – Take your shoes off Shoes can carry pollen, dirt and soil from outside, spreading it through your home – Get it tested You can make sure your home is radon free by getting a test – Watch paint dry Ensure paint has dried compleletly before using a newly painted room – Crack it open Dry your washing outside, if possible. If not, make sure you open the windows – Time for a change Ensure shower curtains are changed regularly and avoid ones made from vinyl |
As well as biological pollutants and VOCs, there are a number of different gases, which are common within the home.
Radon is a natural radioactive gas, that comes from the soil. It can seep into the home through cracks in solid floors, construction joints, cracks in walls, gaps around pipes and the water supply.
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