When our house or office is exposed to dust, we can see it and know how to clean it. But if the air is polluted, how do we clean it? Air pollution can be found not only outside the house, but also inside the house.
US Environmental Protection Agency encourages us to improve the air quality in our house as early as possible. Polluted air can increase the risk of cancer, lung diseases, and asthma, as described by Max Sherman, a scientist from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, University of California.
Here are some of the most common air pollutants found inside the house and how to re-clean the air so we can breathe more easily, as quoted from foxnews.com.
Furniture, Floor and Air Freshener
Flooring materials made of real wood or sawdust are contributors to chemicals at home. The chemical compound formaldehyde is found in wood flooring solution. If it is left too long, exposure to these chemical compounds can cause throat irritation, asthma, and neurological disorders. Moreover, in the long term, may increase the risk of some types of cancer. In addition to the chemical compound formaldehyde, many household products emit easily vaporised organic compounds or VOC (volatile organic compound). VOCs are commonly found in carpets, fabrics, air fresheners, perfumes, and shampoos. When buying furniture, carpets, or opening their plastic wraps, you have to protect yourself with a mask. Clean the source of odour from the newly purchased product and make sure to be in the room with good air circulation to dispose of the chemical compounds quickly.
Cooking and Taking Shower
Every time we cook breakfast or shower, there are chances of creating pollution harmful for our body. High-temperature cooking produces acrolein, a toxin that can irritate the eyes and nose. Inhaling acrolein can increase the risk of lung cancer. "Boiling water can be categorised as low-level pollution. But heating the oil until producing smoke is a high-level pollution. We cannot be sure that this as deadly thing, but it is quite harmful," said Max. Other pollutant that can be produced by taking shower is room humidity. Humidity is necessary for mold and mildew to grow. Therefore, make sure the bathroom has a good ventilation.
Text by Denistya Sagita
Stock photos from Good Housekeeping
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