We all want clean air, but for people with asthma, good indoor air quality is a must. Making your home asthma-friendly can significantly reduce both the frequency and intensity of your asthma symptoms, greatly improving your quality of life. This will also be appreciated by any guests who visit you who also have respiratory issues. Now that the temperatures outside are falling a bit and we’re spending more time inside, it’s a great time to review your indoor air quality practices and make improvements.
Why Indoor Air Quality Matters for Asthma
You may not be able to see the air inside your home, but it’s likely full of various pollutants, including dust mites, pet dander, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These can all trigger asthma symptoms. All this extra time indoors during the fall months increases your exposure to these potential asthma triggers, which can lead to asthma attacks, increased symptoms, and long-term respiratory problems.
Key Factors That Affect Indoor Air Quality
The main factors that affect indoor air quality for most homes and businesses are:
- Humidity Level – High humidity can lead to mold growth, while low humidity can irritate the respiratory system.
- Allergens – Dust mites, pet dander, and pollen can accumulate indoors, contributing to poor air quality.
- Chemical Pollutants – VOCs from cleaning products, paints, and even new furniture can release chemicals that aggravate asthma.
- Ventilation – Proper airflow is critical to remove stale air and reduce indoor pollutant levels.
Steps to Make Your Home Asthma-Friendly
1. Control Humidity Levels
Keep the inside of your home at a humidity level between 30-50% to make it more difficult for dust mites and mold to thrive. You may want to consider using an in-home dehumidifier, especially when outdoor humidity levels are high. If there is anywhere where water is entering the home, such as a leak, repair it as soon as possible. Finally, be sure to properly ventilate any room in your home that is prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
2. Invest in a High-Quality Air Purifier
An air purifier with a HEPA filter can capture up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and pet dander. Some purifiers also have activated carbon filters to capture VOCs. Place air purifiers in the rooms that are used the most, including bedrooms and living rooms. Some air purifiers even include a humidity gauge to give you an easy way to assess the current humidity level and make adjustments.
3. Eliminate Dust and Dust Mites
Dust mites love living in any type of fabric, including bedding, upholstery, furniture, and carpets. Minimize dust mites in your home by washing all bedding at least once per week in hot water, using allergy-proof mattresses and pillow covers, and vacuuming all carpets and upholstered furniture frequently. For optimal asthma-friendliness, ditch those carpets for hardwood flooring instead.
4. Ventilate Your Home Properly
We mentioned already how important proper ventilation is, especially in more humid rooms like bathrooms and basements. Installing exhaust fans in these rooms is a smart move, as they will pull out humid air and reduce humidity levels. You can also open your windows as much as the weather and outdoor pollen count will permit, which allows fresh air to enter and circulate throughout your home.
5. Use Non-Toxic, Fragrance-Free Cleaning Products
Do some research to find household cleaning products that are safe for people with respiratory issues, including asthma. Opt for non-toxic, fragrance-free, and eco-friendly cleaners whenever possible. Harsh disinfectants and some aerosols can produce harmful fumes that can worsen asthma symptoms.
6. Prevent & Manage Mold
Mold in your home is always a cause for concern, so be sure to inspect areas that are prone to high humidity regularly. If you do see any signs of mold, thoroughly clean the area with a cleaner made for mold removal, then add a dehumidifier to the area to prevent further problems. Check back on the area frequently and adjust the dehumidifier as needed. Also, consider adding extra ventilation to the problematic area.
7. Reduce Exposure to Pet Dander
Finally, let’s talk about your furry friends. Almost all pets release dander from their fur, which is a significant irritant for people with asthma. Managing pet dander is crucial for keeping an asthma-friendly home. Bathe your pets regularly and have them groomed on a routine. If someone in the home is particularly sensitive to pet dander, you may need to separate the pets from the areas where that person sleeps and spends time. Adding a HEPA filter air purifier to any room where pets spend a lot of time is also a good option.
Making Your Home a Safe Haven for Asthma
Creating an asthma-friendly home environment takes dedication but can make a significant difference in quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling to control asthma symptoms in Tampa Bay, it’s time to talk to the board-certified specialists at AllergyTampa.com for personalized asthma management strategies and recommendations tailored to your specific needs. To schedule an appointment, give us a call at 813-971-9743. Breathe easy knowing that we’re by your side throughout your asthma journey, leading you back to optimal functioning and quality of life.
