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When it gets cold outside, there’s no better place to be than inside cuddled up under a blanket. Too bad that blanket you dragged out of the closet is infested with dust mites and the scented candle you're burning is releasing VOCs into the air. Well, before winter drags on too long, perhaps it’s time to start thinking about your indoor air quality and how an air purifier or indoor air quality service might be able to give you that breath of fresh air you’re craving.
1. Dust Mites: A Microscopic Menace
Invisible to the naked eye, dust mites are a major culprit triggering allergies, especially in winter when homes are sealed tight. These tiny arachnids thrive in bedding, upholstery, low ventilated areas, and carpets.
Solution: Regularly wash bedding in hot water, vacuum carpets and upholstery, schedule annual carpet and upholstery cleaning, and invest in allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers. It may be time to start thinking about having your air ducts cleaned and replacing that air filter. Also, an air purifier placed on your bedside table can capture and destroy airborne dust mites that get thrown into the air as you toss and turn, providing purified air to breathe all night long.
2. Mold Spores: Thriving in Damp Corners
Mold spores go dormant in cold temperatures, but heating systems turned on during winter means mold can get a second chance at reproducing. Mold spores can cause respiratory issues and allergic reactions, making them a significant concern for indoor air quality and your overall health.
Solution: Control indoor humidity levels with dehumidifiers and ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens. Clean and inspect damp areas regularly. While it’s virtually impossible to eradicate mold spores from your home, Molekule’s PECO technology actually destroys airborne mold spores, helping reduce the chances of mold growing.
3. Pet Dander: A Furry Friend's Unseen Trail
Any animal with fur or feathers produces pet dander. Even hypoallergenic breeds of cats and dogs produce dander, just less than some other breeds. In winter, when windows are closed, these microscopic particles linger longer in indoor spaces, wreaking havoc on the sinuses of the unsuspecting.
Solution: Bathe and groom pets regularly to minimize dander. Designate pet-free zones in the home, particularly in bedrooms. Molekule air purifiers, placed strategically in common pet areas, capture and destroy airborne pet dander, providing cleaner air for both you and your furry friends.
4. VOCs: Unseen Aggravators
Common household items like cleaning products, scented candles, and even cooking can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. In winter, when homes are less ventilated, these pollutants can accumulate and become up to 5 times more concentrated than outdoors.
Solution: Opt for natural cleaning products and be mindful of ventilation when using items with strong odors. Place your air purifiers in high-traffic areas, providing efficient VOC removal.
5. Pollen: Cedar Fever
For a certain very aware section of the United States, cedar fever is a very real condition that peaks from December through February, especially in Texas and areas with high populations of cedar and juniper trees.
Solution: Wipe down shoes and outdoor gear before entering the home. Regularly clean floors and surfaces to minimize pollen accumulation. Place your air purifiers near entry points (doors, windows) so they can capture and destroy pollen.
Fresh Air Matters
Winter allergies may be as inevitable as the seasons, but your home doesn't have to be a haven for allergens. Follow the tips outlined above, and use your air purifiers in key areas to ensure a continuous supply of clean air, so you can embrace winter and breathe better air in the comfort of your home.