Did you know that indoor air could actually be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air? Breathing healthy air goes hand-in-hand with living green and feeling good—it’s just as important as the quality of the food and water you take in every day. Better air for you means better air for the planet. Breathe easier and healthier at home with these go-to green strategies.

Let chemically dry-cleaned clothing air outdoors before hanging it in the closet. Photo by iStockPhoto.com

Look for Low-VOC
Choose low- or zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) building materials and home furnishings and finishes. VOCs are harmful gases emitted from certain common liquids and solids, like paint and carpeting. Bonus: Hard-surface flooring is a healthy alternative to carpet, because it doesn’t trap allergens. 

Clean Smarter
Use natural, non-chlorinated cleaning products and say no to synthetic fragrances in aerosol cans, air fresheners and petroleum-based candles. Vacuum floors with a HEPA (high efficiency particle air) model vacuum to catch fine dust particles and dust mites. Another good idea: Change your air-conditioner filter regularly.

House plants help purify indoor air, naturally Photo by iStockPhoto.com

Keep the Yuck Out
Keep things out of your home that cause air pollution, including cigarette smoke, excess moisture, which causes mold, and chemicals. Store toxic products outside of your home, in the garage, or skip them altogether. Ventilate well with exhaust fans—in the kitchen and bathrooms especially—and open your windows regularly.


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