Clean Up That Bad Indoor Pollution

According to the EPA, the Environmental Protection Agency, invisible indoor pollution at home can be higher than it is outdoors, loaded with pollen, mold and pollutants from cleaning products.

Prevention publication released a guide to clear up some of that indoor pollution:

Open the windows occasionally
Open the window for at least 5 to 10 minutes in the morning, and before going to bed. It may sound cold, but it brings in new oxigen, and release some of the carbon dioxide that has been trapped in the house.

Clean up your Winter gear Winter blankets and coats that have been store for 3 seasons may have dust and other allergens. Open the boxes outside and shake the gear before bringing them inside. Wash blankets and lines.

Be careful with excessive candles Studies show that some scented candles produce tiny bits of pollution known as particulates that can inflame the respiratory tract and aggravate asthma. Avoid burning or use them in moderation, and close to vents.

Turn off ventilation fans
Exhaust fans work by sending the stale indoor air outside and replacing it with fresh air. However, running powerful fans such as commercial-size kitchen fans, large exhaust fans, or bathroom fans all at once (especially for an extended period of time) can redirect exhaust gases that may include deadly carbon monoxide fumes produced by gas or oil heaters back into the house instead of up and out the flue, explains Max Sherman, PhD, a senior scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.
Turn exhaust fans off as soon as they've done their job, or consider replacing a manual switch with a timer to limit unnecessary use. Install carbon monoxide detectors as well; they're just as important as fire detectors.

Replace old filters The upside to winter's drier air is that it makes it difficult for mold to grow. But existing mold from damp basements and lingering spores in air-conditioning systems can become airborne (and stay there) if all the windows are closed. Mold can irritate your eyes, cause congestion, and worsen existing respiratory problems.Change your heating system filters every 3 months.

Lastly, be mindful with the type of cleaning products you use at home, especially if children in development are present.

Source: Prevention, a Rodale publication