Indoor air quality (IAQ) is something many people overlook, yet it has a direct impact on health, comfort, and productivity. From allergens and mold to chemical pollutants and poor ventilation, the air you breathe indoors may be up to five times more polluted than the air outside.
To improve indoor air quality, increase ventilation, clean regularly, use air purifiers, control humidity, reduce chemical pollutants, and add plants that naturally filter the air. Testing indoor air quality helps identify issues so you can target them effectively.
This guide will cover how to improve indoor air quality at home, in offices, in schools, during winter, and even during wildfires, along with natural solutions and long-term maintenance tips.
Why Improving Indoor Air Quality Is Important
How Does Indoor Air Quality Affect Health?
Poor air quality contributes to allergies, asthma, headaches, fatigue, and even long-term respiratory problems. Pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold spores, and dust particles accumulate indoors when ventilation is poor.
Studies show that people spend over 90% of their time indoors, making indoor air quality a major factor in overall health. Good IAQ means fewer illnesses, better sleep, and increased focus.
How Bad Is Indoor Air Quality Indoors?
It depends on factors like building design, location, and habits. Homes near busy roads may have higher levels of outdoor pollutants seeping in. Offices and schools often suffer from dust, poor ventilation, and chemical cleaners. In winter or wildfire season, indoor air quality can become significantly worse.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home
Your home is where you spend the most time, so keeping the air clean matters. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Increase Ventilation and Air Circulation
- Open windows and doors when outdoor air quality is good.
- Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture and pollutants.
- Install energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) or heat-recovery ventilators (HRVs) in modern airtight homes.
2. Use Air Purifiers and Clean HVAC Systems
- Place portable HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and living rooms.
- Change HVAC filters every 2–3 months.
- Clean ducts periodically to prevent dust buildup.
3. Reduce Indoor Pollutants
- Avoid smoking indoors.
- Choose low-VOC paints, carpets, and furniture.
- Store cleaning chemicals and paints outside the living space.
4. Control Humidity Levels
- Keep indoor humidity between 30–50%.
- Use a dehumidifier in basements to prevent mold.
- Run a humidifier in dry climates or during winter.
5. Clean Regularly to Remove Dust and Allergens
- Vacuum carpets and rugs with a HEPA vacuum cleaner.
- Wash curtains, bedding, and upholstery often.
- Use doormats to reduce dirt and pollen entering the home.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in the Office
Workplaces often have large groups of people, which makes air quality management even more important. Poor IAQ in offices has been linked to lower productivity and “sick building syndrome.”
- Upgrade HVAC systems and maintain them regularly.
- Install high-efficiency filters to remove pollutants.
- Reduce chemical exposure by using eco-friendly cleaning supplies.
- Place air-purifying plants like snake plants, spider plants, or peace lilies around work areas.
- Encourage employees to open windows when possible.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Schools
Children breathe faster than adults and are more vulnerable to air pollutants. Ensuring clean air in schools is critical for their health and learning.
- Improve ventilation in classrooms, gyms, and cafeterias.
- Use HEPA filters in HVAC systems.
- Limit the use of strong cleaning agents and air fresheners.
- Regularly inspect schools for mold and water leaks.
- Educate students and staff about keeping air clean indoors.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Winter
During winter, windows remain closed, heating systems run constantly, and the air often becomes too dry.
- Use humidifiers to prevent respiratory irritation.
- Ventilate briefly each day to replace stale indoor air.
- Replace or clean furnace filters regularly.
- Seal cracks and leaks to keep outdoor pollutants from entering.
- Avoid burning candles and wood excessively, as these release smoke particles.
How to Improve Indoor Air Quality During Wildfires
Wildfires release fine particles and toxins that can travel long distances and enter homes.
- Keep windows and doors tightly sealed.
- Use portable HEPA filters to trap smoke particles.
- Create a “clean air room” with minimal furniture and a high-efficiency air purifier.
- Avoid activities that worsen indoor air, such as vacuuming, frying food, or lighting candles.
Natural Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality
If you prefer natural solutions, here are safe and effective methods:
- Indoor Plants: Some plants, such as spider plants, snake plants, and pothos, absorb pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde.
- Natural Cleaning Products: Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice work as safe alternatives to harsh chemicals.
- Essential Oils: Oils like eucalyptus, tea tree, and lavender may help purify the air when used in diffusers.
- Beeswax Candles: Unlike paraffin candles, beeswax candles release fewer pollutants.
Long-Term Strategies to Maintain Indoor Air Quality
Improving IAQ is not just a one-time effort. It requires consistent maintenance:
- Schedule professional HVAC inspections twice a year.
- Monitor indoor air quality with smart sensors.
- Replace air filters regularly.
- Clean ducts and vents as needed.
- Maintain plants and ensure they do not cause mold growth.
Common Questions About Indoor Air Quality
How can I improve my indoor air quality quickly?
Open windows, run an air purifier, vacuum floors, and remove pollutant sources like candles and sprays.
How do you fix poor indoor air quality?
Identify the source whether it’s mold, chemicals, or poor ventilation—and apply targeted solutions like dehumidifiers, HEPA filters, or fresh airflow.
How to keep indoor air quality good every day?
Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, filter replacements, and reducing chemicals are the keys to maintaining healthy air.
Can I improve indoor air quality naturally?
Yes. Use plants, natural cleaners, essential oils, and proper humidity control.
How to make indoor air quality better in offices and schools?
Improve ventilation, reduce chemical cleaners, add air-purifying plants, and monitor with IAQ devices.
Final Thoughts
Improving indoor air quality is a lifestyle habit, not a one-time fix. Whether at home, in the office, or at school, clean air ensures better health, productivity, and comfort. By combining ventilation, filtration, humidity control, natural cleaning, and consistent maintenance, you can create a healthier indoor environment for everyone.