9 Steps for a Better Indoor Air Quality During the COVID-19 Crisis

Everyone is stuck indoors because of the health crisis nowadays. When it’s necessary to go outside, we are compelled to practice social distancing and wear face shield to keep safe and combat the spread of COVID-19.
You might be tempted to think that staying indoors means you’re safe from air pollution. But, according to research that is far from the case. Environmental Protection Agency or EPA states that the air pollution can occur indoors too. Indoor air pollution has been associated to occurrences of fatigue, dizziness and headaches. The World Health Organization refers such manifestation as “sick building syndrome.” It just shows that the air quality is something that cannot be ignored.
Our homes are supposed to be the safe sanctuary – an inviting to place to rest, to rejuvenate and heal from daily stressors. But is the air we breathe inside our homes are really non-hazardous and safe?
Alpine Cleaners wanted to share with you the main factors that contributing to the poor indoor air quality and how to address them for a better air quality.

9 Easy Steps to Improve the Indoor Air Quality During Covid-19 Outbreak 
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1. Have a Regular Maintenance on HVAC Systems - Lack of regular maintenance on HVAC Systems is one of the main factors contributing to poor indoor air quality, according to Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. The organization points out that this can lead to health conditions including headaches, concentration problems, rashes, ear, nose and throat irritation. One of the easiest ways to improve the indoor air quality is to change the filter regularly. This can be accomplished a minimum of every 3 months, more so if you are a pet owner.
2. Clean Dirty Ducts- Ducts can be a homebased of many contaminants and other nasty critters. If this is something that has been neglected for a while, this should be inspected and cleaned. Dust, pollen, and other allergens can worsen asthma and allergy symptoms. You need to clean your ducts even more often if you have pets or recently renovated your home. (Check out how to clean your carpets if your pets)
3. Banish Dust – Dust can contain traces of harmful chemicals like flame retardants, pesticides and lead. Even a little of dust can do a lot of harm. Invest in a quality vacuum with an efficient filtration system like HEPA Filter and vacuum at least twice a week. Vacuum regularly as you can and don’t forget the underneath sofas and bedding. You can also use vacuum attachments to clean furniture, curtain and hard-to-reach places like corners. Don’t forget to empty and clean the filter after every use to prevent dust from spewing back out.
4. Get Some Fresh Air – COVID – 19 lessens our time outdoors. Stagnant air can cause poor indoor air quality due to the build-up contaminants such as dust mites, pollen and pet dander. Getting fresh air is important in keeping us healthy, refreshed and happy. So make it a habit of opening a window or door to circulate some fresh air into the house. You can enjoy walks, runs, and hikes as long as you keep distance from others.
5. Clean Filthy Ceiling Fans and Baseboards – These areas are most commonly overlooked. Keep an eye out for filthy baseboards when mopping, sweeping or vacuuming. Also, clean your ceiling fans at least every two month using either a vacuum extension or a microfiber cloth with mild dish soap or water.
6. Replace Dirty or Clogged Air Filters –If air filters are clogged and dirty, the healthy airflow is prevented, the components inside your air conditioner is damaged and the system’s efficiency is decreased. HVAC professionals recommend cleaning/replacing your air filter every one to three months.
7. Keep Those Kitchen Extractor Fans On – Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, eating out, unless you get it to go is no longer an option. When cooking at home, always have the kitchen extractor fan on, especially if your kitchen operates on gas. Cooking naturally releases VOCs, carbon monoxide and formaldehyde into the air from heating oil, fat and other food ingredients at high temperatures. Turning on the kitchen extractor fans while cooking ensures that your home is circulating healthy air during mealtimes.
8. Get Professional Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning – Carpet more easily traps dust, dirt and dust mites that can aggravate allergies, and respiratory conditions. If you do not schedule professional carpet and upholstery cleaning in Massachusetts, then you risk a lot of allergens, dirt, and harmful bacteria in your home and air. Take a look at our flexible and premium carpet cleaning packages that can help improve the indoor air quality. These cleaning solutions are green, safe, all-natural, no VOCs and no off-gassing.
9. Go Green – You don’t need to use toxic cleaning agents to cut through grease and grime because there are plenty of Eco-friendly cleaning products that work just as well and smell a lot better. You can also start a compost pile. Composting helps eliminate food waste and can save you money on chemical fertilizers for your own garden and indoor plants.

These steps may seem small, but collectively they can make a huge impact on the health of your home and your overall well-being. Known how inexpensive they are and we are facing the Coronavirus crisis today, there’s really no excuse to try them.

Alpine Cleaners want you to breathe easier, healthier and feel even more relaxed in your sanctuary – your home.