- Many people assume their home is the safest place, but indoor air can often be more polluted than outside air.
- Closed doors and windows trap harmful particles and gases indoors.
- Poor ventilation, especially in densely populated regions, increases pollutant buildup.
- Continuous exposure indoors means pollutants affect health more deeply over time.
Major Sources of Indoor PM2.5 and Pollution
- Cooking smoke and fine particles: Frying, grilling, and burning fuels release PM2.5 that can enter the lungs and bloodstream.
- Furniture and building materials: Plywood, particle board, adhesives, and paints emit gases like formaldehyde.
- Cleaning products and air fresheners: Many release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that irritate lungs and eyes.
- Dampness and mold: Humid conditions promote mold growth that releases harmful spores and toxins.
- Pets and dust: Pet dander, hair, and dust mites trigger allergies and breathing problems.
- Carbon monoxide and radon: Invisible and odorless gases that can cause dizziness, fatigue, and even death at high levels.
Health Risks of Indoor air Pollution
- Long-term PM2.5 exposure can cause asthma and allergies in children.
- Adults may develop lung disease and reduced breathing capacity.
- Increased risk of heart disease and possible neurological effects.
- Common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, poor sleep, and throat or eye irritation.
- Frequent coughing, sneezing, skin irritation, and worsening asthma may occur.
- Symptoms that improve outdoors may indicate “sick building syndrome.”
Ways to Make Indoor air Safer
- Open windows daily for 15–20 minutes to improve ventilation.
- Use an exhaust fan during and after cooking.
- Install HEPA-filter air purifiers to reduce fine particles.
- Keep indoor humidity below 50% to prevent mold growth.
- Choose low-chemical paints and safer furniture materials.
- Avoid scented sprays; use natural cleaners and indoor plants instead.
- Track air quality using reliable monitoring apps or devices.
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