American Lung Association of New Mexico

Indoor

There are many sources of indoor air pollution in our homes and offices. The need to save energy has encouraged people to make their homes as airtight as possible, however the effects of these measures has been ignored. As a result, researchers have found that air pollution can be much greater indoors than outdoors.

Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors. Often, indoor air pollutants give no warning and produce vague symptoms that are hard to pin down to a specific source.

What Causes Indoor Air Pollution?

• Particulate matter caused by tobacco smoke, animal dander, dust, or dirt in air ducts

• Biological contaminants caused by dust mites, standing water, mold, or houseplants

• Volatile organic compounds caused by moth balls, carpet fumes, or dry cleaned clothing

• Toxic chemicals caused by household cleaning products, pesticides, paint, paint thinner, or glues

Strategies to reduce indoor air pollution

• Avoid secondhand smoke

• Keep pets outdoors and off furniture, and bathe animals regularly

• Use safe alternatives to household cleaning products

• Maintain low indoor humidity

• Vacuum carpets frequently and use a high-efficiency vacuum bag

• Open your windows or turn on the exhaust fan when cooking or using chemicals