The Importance of Simple Indoor Air Purification
Indoor air quality is a major concern for many people, especially those with allergies or respiratory problems. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a variety of health problems, including headaches, coughing, and respiratory diseases. In fact, according to the American Lung Association, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air.
Simple indoor air purification is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. By reducing the number of pollutants in the air, people can reduce their risk of health problems and improve their quality of life. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of poor indoor air quality, the best air purifiers on the market, homemade and natural air purifiers, and simple steps to improve indoor air quality.
The Dangers of Poor Indoor Air Quality
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollution is one of the top five environmental risks to public health [1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that indoor air pollution is responsible for 4.3 million deaths each year [2]. In the United States, people spend an average of 90% of their time indoors where indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air, according to a study by the American Lung Association [4].
Indoor air pollutants come from a variety of sources, including pets, cleaning products, tobacco smoke, and building materials. Exposure to these pollutants can cause a range of health problems, including headaches, dizziness, fatigue, coughing, sneezing, eye, nose, and throat irritation, asthma attacks, respiratory diseases, and cancer.
Children, older adults, and those with respiratory diseases are especially at risk [4]. Children exposed to indoor air pollution can develop asthma, respiratory diseases, and other developmental problems [4]. Older adults are more likely to have pre-existing health problems that can be exacerbated by indoor air pollution [4]. People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory diseases are more likely to experience worsening symptoms when exposed to indoor air pollution [4].
Best Air Purifiers on the Market
Air purifiers are an effective way to improve indoor air quality and reduce the number of pollutants in the air. Here are the best air purifiers on the market according to sources:
Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty
The Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty is the best air purifier according to the New York Times Wirecutter [1]. It has a four-stage filtration system that removes 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns and covers up to 361 square feet. It also has a filter replacement indicator and an air quality indicator.
RabbitAir MinusA2
The RabbitAir MinusA2 is a high-end air purifier that the Wired recommends [2]. It has a six-stage filtration system that removes 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns and covers up to 700 square feet. It also has a customizable front panel that can be used as a work of art.
Blueair Blue Pure 211+
The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ is another air purifier recommended by the New York Times Wirecutter [1]. It has a three-stage filtration system that removes 99% of particles as small as 2.5 microns and covers up to 540 square feet. It also has a washable pre-filter that helps to extend the life of the main filter.
IKEA Fornuftig
The IKEA Fornuftig is an affordable air purifier that the New York Times Wirecutter recommends [1]. It has a three-stage filtration system that removes 99.5% of particles as small as 0.07 microns and covers up to 108 square feet. It also has a filter replacement indicator and a timer function.
Honorable Mentions
Other air purifiers that closely approach the performance of the top picks include the Honeywell HPA300 and the Levoit LV-H133, according to the New York Times Wirecutter [1]. The Wired also recommends the Dyson Pure Hot+Cool Cryptomic as a high-end air purifier with a heating and cooling function [2].
Homemade Air Purifiers
Homemade air purifiers can be a simple and inexpensive way to improve indoor air quality. Here are some examples of homemade air purifiers:
Corsi-Rosenthal Box
The Corsi-Rosenthal box is a simple and inexpensive air purifier made of furnace filters and a box fan that has been effective in fighting COVID-19 and has been used in various settings worldwide [3]. To make a Corsi-Rosenthal box, follow these steps:
- Purchase a 20-inch box fan and two 20-inch furnace filters with a MERV rating of at least 13.
- Place one filter on the back of the fan and secure it with bungee cords or tape.
- Place the fan on a flat surface with the filter facing up.
- Place the second filter on top of the fan and secure it with bungee cords or tape.
- Turn on the fan and enjoy cleaner air.
Plant Air Purifier
The Plant Air Purifier is a natural air purifier that utilizes a single houseplant in hydroculture to purify the air with the equivalent cleaning power of over 100 standard houseplants [5]. To make a Plant Air Purifier, follow these steps:
- Purchase a houseplant that is known for its air-purifying properties, such as a snake plant or peace lily.
- Purchase hydroculture equipment, such as hydroculture beads and a hydroculture pot.
- Place the hydroculture beads in the pot and add water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Place the plant in the pot and allow it to grow in the hydroculture for a few weeks.
- Enjoy cleaner air and a beautiful houseplant.
Limitations of Homemade Air Purifiers
While homemade air purifiers can be effective, they have limitations. They are not as powerful as commercial air purifiers and may not remove all pollutants from the air. In addition, they may not be able to filter out particles as small as the coronavirus [3].
Natural Ways to Purify Indoor Air
In addition to using air purifiers, there are several natural ways to purify indoor air. Here are some examples:
Ventilation
Ventilation is an effective way to improve indoor air quality. Opening windows and doors can increase the amount of fresh air in a room and reduce the concentration of pollutants [4].
Houseplants
Houseplants can also improve indoor air quality by removing pollutants from the air [5]. Some of the best air-purifying plants include snake plants, peace lilies, spider plants, and aloe vera.
Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles can improve indoor air quality by releasing negative ions into the air, which can bind with and remove pollutants [6]. They also burn cleaner than paraffin candles, which can release toxic chemicals into the air when burned.
Salt Lamps
Salt lamps are another natural way to purify indoor air. They release negative ions into the air, which can bind with and remove pollutants [6]. They also have a calming effect and can improve mood.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal can absorb pollutants from the air and improve indoor air quality [5]. It can be purchased in the form of bags or as a component of air purifying products.
Essential Oils
Essential oils can be used to improve indoor air quality and provide a pleasant aroma. Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, have antimicrobial properties that can help to kill bacteria and viruses in the air [5].
It is important to note that while natural methods can be effective in improving indoor air quality, they should not be relied upon solely to remove all pollutants from the air.
Conclusion
Indoor air quality is an important aspect of maintaining a healthy home. Poor indoor air quality can lead to short-term symptoms like headaches and coughing, as well as serious respiratory diseases and cancer. Children, older adults, and those with lung disease are most at risk [4].
Air purifiers can be an effective way to improve indoor air quality and reduce the number of pollutants in the air. The Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty, RabbitAir MinusA2, Blueair Blue Pure 211+, and IKEA Fornuftig are among the best air purifiers on the market according to sources. Homemade air purifiers like the Corsi-Rosenthal box and the Plant Air Purifier can also be effective in improving indoor air quality in a simple and inexpensive way.
Natural methods like ventilation, houseplants, beeswax candles, salt lamps, activated charcoal, and essential oils can also be used to improve indoor air quality, but should not be relied upon solely to remove all pollutants from the air.
By taking steps to improve indoor air quality, we can create a healthier and more comfortable living environment for ourselves and our loved ones.
Keep Your Home's Air Clean and Healthy
Improving indoor air quality is essential for maintaining a healthy home. By following the tips and advice outlined in this article, you can create a cleaner, healthier living environment for yourself and your loved ones.
Remember to:
- Use air purifiers to reduce the number of pollutants in the air. Consider the Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty, RabbitAir MinusA2, Blueair Blue Pure 211+ or IKEA Fornuftig as recommended by sources, or try making a homemade air purifier like the Corsi-Rosenthal box or the Plant Air Purifier.
- Utilize natural methods like ventilation, houseplants, beeswax candles, salt lamps, activated charcoal, and essential oils to further improve indoor air quality.
- Regularly maintain your air purifiers and other appliances to ensure they are working efficiently and effectively.
- Test your home for dangerous gases like radon and take steps to reduce dust and humidity.
- Stay informed and up-to-date on the latest research and recommendations for improving indoor air quality.
Thank you for reading! Check out our other great content for more tips and advice on maintaining a healthy home.
Answers To Common Questions
Who can benefit from simple indoor air purification?
Anyone can benefit from simple indoor air purification, especially those with allergies or respiratory issues.
What are some natural ways to purify indoor air?
Houseplants, beeswax candles, salt lamps, activated charcoal, and essential oils are natural ways to purify indoor air.
How does an air purifier work to improve indoor air quality?
Air purifiers use filters to trap pollutants and particles from the air, improving indoor air quality.
What are the best air purifiers for simple indoor air purification?
The Coway Airmega AP-1512HH Mighty and RabbitAir MinusA2 are highly rated air purifiers for simple indoor air purification.
How often should I change the filter in my air purifier?
It is recommended to change the filter in your air purifier every 6-12 months, depending on usage.
What if I don't have the budget for an air purifier?
There are several natural ways to purify indoor air, such as opening windows and doors, using houseplants, and burning beeswax candles.
