A scientist’s guide to life: How to protect yourself from indoor air pollution
Cooking releases particulates into the air, and that levels can remain elevated long after cooking is finished. Open a window when you cook and use the extractor fan if you have one. Put the pot on the back burner where it will ventilate to the fan more efficiently.
Need to know…
If you have an extractor fan, keep it on its highest setting while you’re cooking, and open a window.
- Your wood-burning stove might be lovely, but try to use it sparingly and fuel it with properly seasoned wood.
Use your log burner sparingly
Burning wet wood is worse than dry, seasoned wood.
- The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) recommends burning wood that has a moisture content of less than 20% along with certain stoves that are less polluting.
Go green
Outdoor studies hint that plants can help provide a barrier against some forms of pollution, but the evidence from indoor studies is still lacking.
Don’t go overboard with candles
Candles and incense can also impact air quality
- One study in Danish homes found that candles were the main source of indoor pollution in that country
- In the UK, lighting the odd candle isn’t likely to be much of a problem
Be aware of damp
If you live in a house with damp and mould, and have a child with asthma, it can exacerbate their symptoms. To prevent damp, clean away condensation and mold, and ventilate rooms as thoroughly as possible.
Clean with care
Cleaning products and indoor fragrances produce various volatile organic compounds which can be suspended in the air or settle in dust and on surfaces. Spray cleaning products close to the surface, then wipe with a dry cloth, and wipe again with a cloth that’s been dampened in water.
Furniture is another source of indoor pollution
Fabrics and certain furnishings are treated with flame retardants, and formaldehyde can be found in some furniture, floorings and building materials.
- Although we can’t yet confidently identify the extent of any health effects that are caused, we need to establish set emission standards and a clear labelling system for these items
Comments ()