Is Your Indoor Air SAFE For You And Your Baby?
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Pollution has been a growing cause of concern particularly this year in the country, so much so that Sri Lankan cricketers puked and fell ill at the test match in Delhi! If you thought you were lucky to be away from the ‘gas chamber’ Delhi or much safer in your haven at home, you might be terribly wrong.
Studies have claimed that the air we breathe inside our homes can be 10 times more harmful than that outside (1). So, the next time you catch a cold or a viral infection, it could possibly be due to the pollution within the four walls of your own house! In this case, one can only imagine the impact of polluted air on infants and elders. Most surprisingly this indoor pollution roots from the most basic daily utility items:
Mind The Smoke Behind That Tasty Meal
While one cooks the most delicious meal, the smoke that comes out is not all that good. In fact, it consists of nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide. Even exhaust fans are not fully capable of removing any of it. Grease, steam, and fumes stay in the kitchen and may cause breathing problems among other airborne diseases.
Not-So-Cool Air With Air Conditioners
In many places, life in summers without an air conditioner would seem impossible. But the air conditioner offers you the same stale air, perhaps after cooling it. Fresh air is blocked due to closed rooms and windows. In fact, split AC mode draws air from the outside. Thus, air conditioners are just machines supplying you chilled polluted air.
Paint That Taints Air
While they may make your homes look bright and beautiful, paints definitely contaminate the air we breathe. Certain paints contain VOC’s (volatile organic compounds), which are so harmful that they may lead to respiratory problems (2). So, make sure the next time you think of painting your walls, the paint you choose is free from chemicals like VOCs or, alternatively, use air purifiers.
Furry, Velvety Rugs For Your Room? Think Twice
For ages, rugs and furry carpets have been the ‘thing’ for some homes. But with adding a sassy and classy touch to your homes, they also bring with them dust, allergens and millions of bacteria. All of which may lead to watery eyes, allergies, cough, etc. especially in households with babies. Thinner rugs and carpets are easier to clean and a safer option. Air purifiers too are a must.
Plants Give Oxygen But Pollen Allergies Too!
Though the greenery outside your homes might soothe your eyes and make you feel oh-so-eco-friendly, research has shown that pollen from flowers may cause allergies in people (3). They are so small that one can’t detect them with the naked eye. Air purifiers again come in handy in such cases.
Damp Walls: Not So Baby Friendly
Nobody likes damp and leaking walls in the house. Moist areas act as a home for mould to grow, which can lead to wheezing and allergies in babies (4). Immediately controlling the moisture is the best way to stay and breathe safely.
Invisible Dangers
Dust mites are microorganisms that cannot be seen but reside on beds, sofas, and all the warm places in your house. They multiply very rapidly so it is important to maintain hygiene and keep your air purified to avoid infections and allergies.
Beware Of Pets
Pet obsession is the most common among all the obsessions in human history! Though these furballs are the dearest part of your lives, nevertheless, a little precaution can save you from allergies and respiratory problems because of animal hair. Pets must seldom be allowed on beds especially in houses with babies. They must be kept outside for most of the day and the premises of the house must be kept clean. It is important to purify air using high-quality purifiers after cleaning.
While it is a long process to curb air pollution outside; hygiene, air purifiers, and quick action are your tools to combat air pollution indoors.
Stay healthy!
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