Improve Indoor Air Quality
Written by Shannon, Owner and Founder of Long Island MaidsIndoor air can be 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air. A comprehensive approach combining cleaning, filtration, ventilation, and humidity control creates significantly healthier breathing space.
The Four Pillars of Air Quality
According to the EPA, improving indoor air quality requires a multi-pronged approach. No single strategy is enough—you need all four working together:
Cleaning for Better Air
Regular cleaning removes pollutants before they become airborne. The key is trapping particles rather than spreading them around.
Dust Properly
- Damp dust: Dry dusting launches particles into the air—always use damp microfiber
- Top to bottom: Dust falls, so start high and work down
- Don't forget: Ceiling fans, tops of cabinets, door frames, baseboards, blinds
- Frequency: Weekly for most surfaces; dust-prone areas more often
Vacuum with HEPA
- Use only True HEPA vacuums with sealed systems
- Vacuum all floors weekly minimum; high-traffic areas 2-3 times
- Include upholstery, mattresses, and curtains in your routine
- Edge along baseboards where dust accumulates
Reduce Clutter
Every surface collects dust. Fewer objects means less surface area for dust to settle, easier and faster cleaning, and better air circulation.
Air Filtration Options
HVAC Filters
Your home's heating/cooling system filters all the air in your house multiple times daily:
- MERV 11-13: Best balance of filtration and airflow for most homes
- MERV 13-16: Hospital-grade; may restrict airflow in older systems
- Change monthly: More often during allergy season or if you have pets
- Check compatibility: Higher MERV ratings need stronger fans
Portable HEPA Air Purifiers
Supplement whole-house filtration, especially in bedrooms:
- Size for the room: Check CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating
- Run continuously: Especially in bedrooms—you spend 8+ hours there
- Replace filters on schedule: Clogged filters don't work
- Position properly: Place away from walls and obstructions
What About Ionizers and Ozone?
- Ionizers: May help but can produce ozone; effectiveness varies
- Ozone generators: Not recommended—ozone irritates lungs and can worsen asthma
- UV-C in HVAC: Can reduce mold/bacteria in ducts; supplemental to filtration
Ventilation Strategies
Fresh air dilutes indoor pollutants. The challenge is balancing air exchange with outdoor conditions (pollen, pollution, temperature).
When to Ventilate
- Open windows: When outdoor air quality is good and pollen counts are low
- Best times: Early morning or evening (lower pollen); after rain (pollen settled)
- Avoid: High pollen days, poor air quality days, high humidity days
Mechanical Ventilation
- Exhaust fans: Run during and 20 minutes after showers/cooking
- Range hoods: Vent outside if possible—recirculating hoods less effective
- ERV/HRV systems: Exchange air while recovering heating/cooling energy
Cross Ventilation
When conditions allow, open windows on opposite sides of the house to create airflow through the entire home. Even 15-20 minutes of cross ventilation significantly refreshes indoor air.
Humidity Control
Humidity affects both air quality and allergen levels:
Target Range: 30-50%
- Below 30%: Dry air irritates airways; increases static and dust
- 30-50%: Optimal range for comfort and allergen control
- Above 50%: Dust mites thrive; mold growth begins
- Above 60%: Mold grows rapidly; musty odors develop
Managing High Humidity
- Run AC—it naturally dehumidifies
- Use dehumidifiers in basements and problem areas
- Run exhaust fans during and after moisture-producing activities
- Fix leaks and address water intrusion immediately
- Avoid drying clothes indoors
Managing Low Humidity
- Use humidifiers during heating season
- Keep houseplants (they release moisture)
- Air-dry some laundry indoors (controlled addition of moisture)
- Use a whole-house humidifier attached to HVAC
Long Island Ventilation Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Do houseplants improve indoor air quality?
Despite popular belief, houseplants have minimal impact on air quality in normal home conditions. You'd need hundreds of plants to meaningfully filter a room. They can help with humidity and have aesthetic/mental health benefits, but don't rely on them for air purification.
How often should air ducts be cleaned?
The EPA doesn't recommend routine duct cleaning—there's no evidence it prevents health problems. However, consider cleaning if there's visible mold growth, vermin infestation, or ducts are clogged with debris. Focus on regularly changing filters instead.
Are scented candles and air fresheners bad for air quality?
Many candles and air fresheners release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and particulates that can irritate airways, especially for people with asthma. Unscented options or essential oil diffusers used sparingly are better alternatives.
What about air quality monitors?
Consumer air quality monitors can help you understand when to ventilate, run purifiers, or investigate problems. Look for monitors that measure PM2.5 (fine particles), VOCs, humidity, and CO2. They're helpful but not essential.
Can cleaning products hurt air quality?
Yes—many cleaning products release VOCs. Choose fragrance-free, low-VOC products. Ventilate during and after cleaning. Never mix products (especially bleach and ammonia). Consider switching to simpler ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap.
Related Guides
Cleaning That Improves Your Air
Our cleaning teams use HEPA vacuums and low-VOC products. Regular professional cleaning is a key component of better indoor air quality.
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