Ep. 145: How to Improve Indoor Air Quality (Part 2 of 2)
Part of the series: Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations Podcast
LISTEN TO EPISODE 145 (choose your podcaster)
This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network.
We spend about 90% of our time indoors. But what's actually in that air we breathe, and why does it matter so much for people with asthma, allergies, and eczema?
This is part two of our series about indoor air quality. We discuss how you can improve your indoor air quality. Kortney shares her experience living in Germany, where ventilating your home isn't just a suggestion, it's practically a lifestyle. We also go room by room with practical tips you can actually use, from washing your sheets in hot water to why that scented candle might need to go.
Part one covered what causes bad indoor air quality and what causes health problems for people with asthma and allergic diseases.
This series is part of the EXHALE project, a set of six evidence-based strategies designed to help people with asthma achieve better health and improved quality of life. This series supports the last "E" in EXHAL, reducing asthma triggers from indoor environments.
What we cover in part part two about indoor air quality
The art of Lüften, aka house burping: Fully opening your windows for 5 to 10 minutes is better than cracking them all day.
How to reduce dust mites in your bedroom: Hot water washes, dust mite covers, humidity control between 30 and 50%, and keeping stuffed animals off the bed.
What to know about air purifiers: HEPA filters catch particles, carbon filters catch chemicals, and size matters for your room.
Some cleaning products may make things worse: Choose fragrance-free products, avoid aerosols and scented candles, and wear a mask while cleaning.
Kitchen and bathroom tips: Run exhaust fans during and after cooking or showering, check for leaks, and watch your shower curtain for mold.
Advocating for better air at school and work: Ask about ventilation and MERV filters, and pay attention if your symptoms improve on weekends.
More resources about air quality and asthma
Timestamps
Our episode discusses how to improve your indoor air quality
01:38 Ventilation, aka Lüften, aka house burping
04:38 Ventilation during pollen season
05:38 Air purifiers
08:37 Cleaning products and air quality
11:42 Bedroom air quality tips
14:06 Dust mite tips
18:44 Vacuuming tips
19:26 Can plants purify the air?
20:52 Living room tips
21:35 Bathroom and kitchen tips
24:23 Air quality at school
26:53 Air quality at work
29:20 Overview of tips to improve indoor air quality
