How to Keep Indoor Air Fresh All Winter Long

Feeling cooped up yet? I know I am. I miss being able to open up the windows and let fresh air into the house, but because I live in Minnesota, there are many months when that is simply not possible. Not only can it start to smell less than fresh inside the home, but that stale air can be unhealthy too. Did you know there’s plenty of scientific evidence that indoor air can be more polluted than outdoor air, even in large cities? Yep, and that’s not good for those of us who work or stay at home during the day.

Here are a few things you can do to keep the air in your home as fresh as possible. Of course, I highly recommend getting outside every day too! I find myself gulping fresh air when I take my son to the bus or head out to run errands in the wintertime. I can tell I need it!

Get proper ventilation

It makes sense that we want our homes to be buttoned up tight for the winter, so we can stay warm without busting the heating budget. But it’s important for homes to breathe too. Look for signs of moisture condensation on windows or walls, which may indicate inadequate ventilation. And be sure to use your range hood and bathroom fans regularly.

Avoid remodeling

Forgo remodeling projects during the colder months, especially those that involve materials with the potential for off-gassing like new carpet, paint or finished wood.

Use safe cleaning products

Opt for cleaning products made with plant-based ingredients over conventional products that may contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that can pollute indoor air.

Burn smart

Choose naturally scented beeswax or soy-based candles instead of artificially scented paraffin wax, which creates pollutants when burned.

Keep indoor plants

There is some indication that house plants can help filter air. According to a study by NASA, the top air-filtering plants include English Ivy, Spider Plants and Peace Lily.

Use an allergen reduction filter

This is the time of year when it’s important to change your furnace filter regularly (at least every 3 months) because your furnace is working overtime to keep you warm.  I’ve been using the Filtrete™ Ultra Allergen Reduction Filter (MPR 1500) because it is 90% effective at capturing particles like dust, pollen and mold spores from the air passing through the filter. It also attracts and captures particles that can carry bacteria and viruses, which can only be a good thing, especially during the winter cold season.

Open up when you can

If a warm day comes around, take advantage of it and open up a couple of doors or windows and try to get a little cross-ventilation going on. Your air will be fresher in no time!