5 Steps To Improve Indoor Air Quality (& Why You Should)

The average person breathes 20,000 breaths daily and spends around 90% of their time indoors1. While it's not a factor we often consider, indoor air is one of the main routes of exposure we face. If that air is packed full of microscopic particles like mold spores, bacteria2, or mycotoxins (toxins produced by certain types of fungi), it will negatively impact our health. 

Every time you inhale, contaminants enter your body thanks to their small size. Some particles, like mycotoxins, are so small that they can bypass your lungs and go straight into your bloodstream. The longer toxic air surrounds you, the more unhealthy stuff your body will be exposed to. Your immune system will attempt to keep up and eliminate them, but it's a tall order to fill. Over time, the immune system can get overwhelmed or malfunction, leading to chronic inflammation3 and a long list of possible symptoms.

Working to reduce opportunities for indoor contaminants can help keep our indoor air quality clean and healthy.

As the seasons change, it's incredibly important to prioritize the HVAC system. As the "lungs of the home," this unit has the power to seriously impact your indoor air quality. If it's harboring contamination like mold or bacteria, it will spread particles such as mold spores, bacteria, and mycotoxins throughout the entire indoor space.

To prevent this air quality hazard, schedule a comprehensive inspection and tuneup of your HVAC system by a certified professional before transitioning from cooling to heating. This preventive step helps ensure your system is free of contaminants and ready for the cooler months ahead. 

Moisture4 is the primary culprit behind mold growth, making it crucial to keep it out of your home. As fall often brings rainstorms and larger weather-related events, it is the perfect time to inspect your home's exterior for any issues that could allow moisture to seep in.

Examine the foundation for cracks, check the roof for damaged shingles, and inspect windows and doors for gaps in the seals. Addressing these issues before winter arrives is also a layer of protection against ice and snow, so it's a double win!

Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, damaging your home's foundation and causing leaks around areas like windows. This can create ideal conditions for microbial growth, especially in areas that remain damp for extended periods.

Regularly cleaning your gutters—in the summer and throughout the fall especially—will help maintain proper drainage and protect your home from potential water damage.

Dust is more than just a nuisance; it can harbor mold spores, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and other allergens5, contributing to poor indoor air quality. Regular cleaning is essential to minimize these risks and maintain a healthy home environment.

When seasons change, you may swap out your clothing, home decor, and other seasonal items. (Like storing those big comfy sweaters while you make room for fresh summer clothes..)

One key way to avoid water damage, mold, and poor indoor air quality is to store items properly. Place everything in sealed containers that are waterproof and easy to clean. Cardboard boxes are not the best option. If these items become wet, they'll become perfect homes for microbial growth. Another layer of protection is to store them off the ground on stainless steel racks with ventilation to allow airflow and avoid becoming wet from issues such as leaks.