While preaching about the numerous health hazards of global environmental pollution, little are we aware of the potential health challenges that we might be facing right inside our comfort zones where we spend most of our quality time, our own homes. There exist a myth about air pollution that it only resides outdoors, but in reality, indoor air can be up to 5 times more polluted than outdoors.

A shift in the pace of human living has caused a dramatic increase in the amount of time that we spend indoors. With the advent of newer technologies that reduces our effort by making sure that everything arrives at our door steps, we now have more time to spend at home. So, we need to have a clearer picture about how we are affected by it, in terms of our health.

The interior of our homes are filled with air pollutants like lead, fire-retardants, radon and even volatile chemicals from fragrances used in conventional cleaners. Some pollutants are brought into the home through our clothes, shoes etc. Some arrive via a new mattress or furniture, or carpet cleaners. There is also risk of smoke pollution through badly managed kitchens. Since most rooms are not adequately ventilated most of the times, the pollutants are quite concentrated in the air and could lead to harmful long term effects for the family members.

Children, asthma patients, and the elderly may be especially sensitive to indoor pollutants, but other adverse health effects may appear years later, after repeated exposure.

There are few effective solutions that have surfaced to combat this problem.The most optimal and cost effective methods have been described below.

 

1. Indoor plants

 

Indoor greenery is a great and cheap way to overcome the air pollution inside the homes. Plants are natural air purifiers, providing clean and pure air to their surroundings. Make sure that the plants are well-placed, in areas where they receive adequate sunlight and water. But it is not recommended to use inside bedrooms.

 

2. Improve ventilation

 

Improving the airflow and ventilation in a home is a very good method to ensure clean air. Stagnant air is mostly stale, and could have more pollutants than freely flowing air. Cross ventilation is an effective method to make sure that there is an adequate rate of airflow through the home.

 

3. Avoid excessive use of aerosols indoors

 

Excessive use of deodorants and air fresheners indoors could lead to accumulation of undesired particles in the air, which in turn could lead to pollution later on. Natural fragrances can be used instead, to make sure that the fragrances does not affect the purity of the air.

 

4. Using paints having anti-pollution properties

 

Some paints have air cleaning properties. They suck up the excessive lead and other unwanted particles, thereby filtering the air. For example, Asian Paints have come up with an innovative solution for indoor pollution with their new Royale Atmos paint.

It reduces harmful pollutants contained in the air, especially the amount of formaldehyde, a dangerous indoor pollutant.. It also absorbs various foul smells and keeps the indoor air fresh. With it’s activated carbon technology, Royale Atmos ensures superior air quality inside  your homes.

Using these methods, along with maintaining adequate cleanliness and hygiene indoors, can help in reducing indoor pollution. This could prevent a lot of diseases that arise as part of long term exposure to pollutants. Take the necessary steps today and ensure the health and safety of you and your loved ones.

Life forms including humans sustain through Prana (the air we breathe). So ensuring the quality of the air we breathe is important. But unfortunately modern conveniences make us prone to many health challenges like these even in the areas of our fundamental and natural needs. The number of hospitals and healthcare centers are increasing and life becomes miserable to so many people regardless of their wealth, success and achievements. It is our responsibility to take care of our body and ensure that we live and perform in our optimal health and vitality by whatever means possible.