Nobonita Chowdhury
Taking the air quality of your home into consideration is important, whether it be allergy season or otherwise. Chemicals like benzene, formaldehyde, and ammonia can easily spread from everyday household items and contaminate the air around you. So it is always best to be prepared, especially if you have asthma or are prone to allergies.
1) Beeswax Candles: While paraffin and aromatic candles present potential harm, beeswax candles are a good substitute. Beeswax candles barely emit any smoke or scent, and they can help purify the air by releasing negative ions. The negative ions can bind with toxins, aiding in their expulsion. These candles are also handy in removing common allergens like dust and dander from the air. Furthermore, they last a lot longer than other mainstream candles.
2) Salt Lamps: So I haven’t seen any of these in Dhaka yet, but I’m sure you’ll find them if you ask around. They sell them by the bulk at souvenir stores in Nepal. I got mine at the Wieliczka salt mine in Poland, and I have to say: they make for splendid room decorations! Not only that, salt lamps (especially the Himalayan ones that you’ll find in this area) attract water molecules from the air, therefore also trapping dirt, pollen and smoke particles that are carried in water vapour. Once the contaminants are locked in the salt, clean water is then released, purifying the air in the process.
3) Plants: A joint study by NASA and the Associated Landscape Contractors of America showed that several houseplants can filter out common volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Even though the research was primarily conducted for space facilities, the knowledge obtained can be applied inside our very homes.
4) Maintaining your regular cleanliness: Keeping clean inside the house is a vital pillar to maintaining good air quality. So unless you’re doing your regular dusting, vacuuming, and sweeping, none of those previous efforts would be as effective. Dust bunnies are deadlier than they might seem and should be cleaned out regularly.
5) Let fresh air in: This one’s speaks for itself. Leave your windows open as often as possible, especially when the weather outside is nice. You’ll see that your entire home will feel refreshed. Opening windows on opposite walls can help create a nice cross-breeze and really get fresh air circulating in your entire home.
6) Avoid harsh chemical cleaners: The U.S. Poison Control Center reports that cleaning products are responsible for nearly 10% of all toxic exposures. So best to remove harsh cleaners from your home and use a sanitizing natural household cleaner. There are plenty of recipes online for making your own.
7) Air Purifiers: While I wouldn’t exactly call this one a natural remedy, it is effective. Air purifiers can remove up to 99% of dangerous air pollutants. A whole-home system is much more effective than individual units per room. So if you’re willing to make the investment, get a centralized system for the entire house.