When you think of air pollution, you likely picture toxic fumes polluting the atmosphere outside your home. However, the air inside your home can be just as dirty as the air outside, especially during the winter months when you can’t open your windows to air out your home. At Allied Services, Inc., we make indoor air quality a priority for the health and well-being of our valued customers, and we’ve put together this list of common things that are polluting your home’s air.

Common Causes of Indoor Air Pollution

1. Dust

Dust is the most common household pollutant. Dust is created by airborne particles of fine, dry matter such as dirt, sloughed-off skin cells, hair, clothing fibers, bacteria, dust mites, pollen, and even bits of dead bugs. Dust can trigger respiratory allergies in people who are sensitive to them, and the best way to combat dust is by dusting and vacuuming, changing your air filters regularly, and getting your air ducts professionally cleaned on a regular basis.

2. Household Cleaning Products

Things like laundry detergents, bleach, all-purpose cleansers, and oven cleaner can be extremely corrosive to your skin and eyes if not used with caution. Because these products contain detergents and grease-cutting agents, you should always wear rubber gloves to protect your skin and make sure there is good air circulation in the room when they are in use. It’s also a good idea to open several windows or keep a fan running so the fumes don’t linger and further pollute your air.

3. Fragrances and Perfumes

Unfortunately, the products we use to make ourselves smell better can be harmful. Many of the substances used in fragrances and perfumes are unregulated by the government, so they aren’t held to any kind of standard. Some of these products have been found to be toxic and are capable of causing skin irritation, allergic reactions, birth defects, or even cancer. You should always use caution when breathing in scented products, or putting anything on your body.

Protect your family from breathing polluted air by replacing your air filter on a regular schedule. For more information on indoor air quality or HVAC maintenance, contact Allied Services today at (937) 269-5059. We proudly serve the Dayton, OH, area, and we can’t wait to work with you!