For the most part, the average house can rightfully be considered a refuge from outdoor pollutants and allergens, but once everything is closed up tight to ward against the cold weather, your home can ironically turn into a breeding ground for dust mites and mold spores. Most newer homes are virtually sealed units, with a very limited exchange of outside air to displace the stale atmosphere inside. Often the worst offenders are the toxic chemicals from household cleansers, furniture, and carpets/rugs.

The good news is you don’t have to be subjected to chemical assault in your own home if you take a more “green” approach to the problem. The following is a list of several eco-friendly ways to improve indoor air quality:

1. Natural cleaners
DIY home cleaning products will reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals that irritate both you and your pet(s). They can be made with simple, natural ingredients such as vinegar or lemon juice, and stored in recycled plastic bottles to keep these items out of the waste stream. Another benefit to making your own cleansers is you don’t have to feel guilty about dumping harsh substances down the drain that could negatively impact water quality and habitat.

2. Air purifying plants
Keeping air cleaning plants in your home, such as peace lily, spider plants, and aloe vera will help remove common VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)like benzene, xylene, and formaldehyde. However, a word of caution should be mentioned about houseplants and mold. Be careful not to over-water the plants, thus creating a prime breeding ground for mold, and dust the leaves of your plants to prevent spores from accumulating.

3. Air fresheners
Limit the use of aerosol sprays to mitigate the release of hazardous VOCs. Many of these sprays have pleasant-smelling fragrances that do a good job of masking the true nature of the toxic chemicals they actually contain. As a safer alternative, homemade air fresheners made with naturally deodorizing baking soda, and added essential oils such as lavender and chamomile will do an excellent job of freshening up a room.

4. Open a window
Let fresh outdoor in occasionally during the winter months to displace stale, polluted indoor air. This works out particularly well during the transitional period between late winter and early spring, when the afternoons are typically warm enough to safely open a window or two without the worry of triggering the furnace to start up.

5. Swap furnace filters
Change your furnace air filters regularly to prevent the trapped polluting particles from recirculating throughout the house. You might also consider making the switch to electrostatic filters to capture a higher percentage of airborne dust. Seasonal duct work cleaning is a good idea, but be careful not to turn the air conditioning or furnace on too soon afterwards, as this could distribute any dust that wasn’t caught in the cleaning process.

6. Air purifiers
Use air purifiers to aid in capturing airborne irritants that can’t be cleaned or dusted away. A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) air purifier will effectively deal with the VOCs furniture, paint, and other sources. Combining these units with humidifiers/dehumidifiers is an excellent method to control the formation of mold and mildew in your home.

Transforming your home into a non-toxic indoor environment is not merely wishful thinking, if you decide to take control of your home’s air quality. Hopefully, the aforementioned tips will help you achieve this admirable goal!