When we think of air pollution, images of smog-filled cities often come to mind. However, indoor air pollution can be just as harmful to our health, if not more. Many everyday items and activities in our homes can release pollutants into the air, impacting our indoor air quality and our well-being. Here are 10 most surprising sources of indoor air pollution:
Gas Appliances
Gas-powered appliances such as stoves, ovens, and water heaters can emit nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) when in use. These gases can accumulate indoors, especially in poorly ventilated spaces, leading to decreased indoor air quality and potential health risks.
While NO2 levels in homes with electric appliances are usually half outdoor levels, in homes with gas stoves or unvented space heaters, indoor levels often exceed outdoor levels.
At homes with gas appliances, the average NO2 level measured often exceeds the limit set by the World Health Organization. Homes need to be well ventilated, adopt air purifiers, a range hood that exhausts air outside should always be used when cooking. Read here what report by By Brady Seals, Andee Krasner says about Gas Stoves: Health and Air Quality Impacts
Dry Cleaning Chemicals
Residual chemicals from dry-cleaned clothing can emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. Read here how Cleaning Supplies and Household Chemicals impacts our lungs.
Dry cleaners use chemicals to clean clothes and other fabrics. These chemicals can seep into the ground if not stored or disposed of properly and can move from the ground into the air of buildings through the foundation. When these chemicals are breathed in, they can be harmful to your health. Dry cleaning chemicals can remain in the environment for decades.
What are VOCs?
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.
Short-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and respiratory symptoms. Long-term exposure to certain VOCs has been linked to more serious health effects, including damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system, as well as an increased risk of cancer.
Sources of Indoor Air Pollution
Scented Candles and Air Fresheners
Scented candles and air fresheners may contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals that can release VOCs and other toxins into the air when burned or sprayed. Effects may include migraine headaches, asthma attacks, breathing and respiratory difficulties, dermatitis, and neurological problems particularly for sensitive individuals.
The use of these products would not provide a long-term solution since the source of odours, bacteria, or other allergens would not be addressed. Read this report for more information on Fragranced consumer products: exposures and effects from emissions
Air fresheners can impact indoor air quality by adding potentially hazardous pollutants into the air. The use of air fresheners is associated with elevated levels of VOCs, such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and xylenes, in indoor air which can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as cause headaches and nausea. The types and amounts of VOCs emitted depend primarily on the fragrance composition of the air freshener, not on the type of air freshener.
Pet Dander
Pet dander consists of tiny, often microscopic flecks of skin shed by animals with fur or feathers. Although pet dander is commonly associated with allergies, its impact on indoor air quality extends beyond allergenic reactions that irritate the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion.
Lightweight pet dander particles readily become airborne, particularly during activities like grooming and play. Suspended in the air, they can worsen respiratory issues and allergies in susceptible individuals.
To mitigate its impact, pet owners should regularly groom their pets, vacuum with HEPA filters, use natural air purifiers, establish pet-free zones, and launder pet bedding frequently.
Printer Ink and Toner
Printers and photocopiers emit Particulate Matter (PM) and VOCs during printing and copying processes, compromising indoor air quality.
While the amount of particulate matter emitted is generally low, prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated areas or high printing environments can lead to increased concentrations of PM in indoor air.
VOCs, such as benzene, toluene, and xylene, can evaporate into the air during printing operations, may pose health risks, especially in poorly ventilated spaces where concentrations can accumulate.
Paints and Varnishes
Paints and varnishes are commonly used in homes and buildings for aesthetic purposes, but their impact on indoor air quality is often overlooked. Even after paint has dried, VOCs can continue to off-gas from painted surfaces for weeks or even months.
To minimize exposure to harmful chemicals, individuals can choose paints and varnishes labelled as "low VOC" or "zero VOC".
They can also use these products in well-ventilated areas with open windows or exhaust fans to allow VOCs to disperse. Allowing painted surfaces to dry and cure thoroughly before occupying the space and airing out newly painted areas for several days can further reduce VOC exposure.
Mattresses and Furniture
Many mattresses and upholstered furniture pieces are made with materials such as foam, adhesives, and flame retardants, which emit VOCs and other harmful substances into the air over time.
These emissions, known as off-gassing, can occur gradually as the products age or in response to changes in temperature and humidity. Formaldehyde, a common chemical used in adhesives and flame retardants, is one example of a VOC that may be released from mattresses and furniture.
To minimize the impact of mattresses and furniture on indoor air quality, consumers can opt for products that are certified as low-VOC or free from harmful chemicals.
Fireplaces and Wood-Burning Stoves
Wood-burning appliances can release fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, and other pollutants into the indoor air, especially if not properly ventilated.
The tiny particles flood into the room when the burner doors are opened for refuelling, a study found. People who load in wood twice or more in an evening are exposed to pollution spikes two to four times higher than those who refuel once or not at all.
The particles can pass through the lungs and into the body and have been linked to a wide range of health damage. The particles are the most harmful pollutants in wood smoke, but it also contains carcinogenic chemicals including benzene and formaldehyde.
Plastic Products
Plastic products, especially PVC-based ones containing phthalates, significantly contribute to indoor air pollution. Found in everyday items like furniture, flooring, and toys, they release harmful chemicals through off-gassing, particularly when exposed to heat or sunlight.
Additives like plasticizers, stabilizers, and flame retardants in PVC emit VOCs over time. Phthalates, used to enhance flexibility, readily leach out into indoor air.
Exposure to these chemicals leads to respiratory issues, headaches, and nausea, with prolonged exposure linked to severe health problems. Opt for natural materials like wood and ensure proper ventilation to mitigate off-gassing.
Household Cleaners
Products like ammonia, bleach, and chlorine, which are commonly found in many household cleaning solutions, release harmful fumes and VOCs into the air when used.
Ammonia, present in glass and window cleaners, is a potent irritant causing respiratory distress and aggravating asthma. Bleach, a strong disinfectant used in bathrooms and kitchens, emits chlorine gas when mixed or in poorly ventilated areas. Chlorine, common in bleach-based products, releases toxic fumes, worsening indoor air quality and posing health risks.
Natural cleaning solutions, like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils, effectively clean surfaces without emitting harmful VOCs into the air.
Understanding and addressing sources of indoor air pollution, from everyday items like plastics and cleaners to less obvious sources like mattresses and furniture, is crucial for improving home air quality and protecting health.
uBreathe's commitment to clean air and respiratory wellness provides valuable solutions and resources. With their innovative air purifiers and guidance on air quality management, individuals can create healthier indoor environments.
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