Indoor Air Pollutants – Types, Sources, and their Health Effects
This article is a more in-depth deep dive on indoor air quality, indoor air pollution, and indoor air pollutants. We covered the basics in our guide on why and how you should filter your indoor air here (internal link).
This article is for the folks that want to take it one step further and dig into what could be contributing to their household air pollution. Once you peel apart the sources of indoor air pollutants you can be mindful of ways to filter – and be conscious of types of indoor cleaning products you may use in the house.
Quick Summary –
There are countless sources of indoor air pollutants – think
Eliminating indoor air pollutants can have a positive health outcomes
Poor indoor air quality can result in many health issues – lung cancer, respiratory diseases, aggravated allergy and/or asthma symptoms, the list goes on.
Types of Indoor Pollutants –
The below list are the major culprits for indoor air pollution, we’ve also included what the Environmental Protection Agency showcases on their site.
Particulate Matter
This can include dust, pollen, pet dander, and/or other tiny particles that can be inhaled and irritate the respiratory system. Allergies anyone?
VOC’s or Volatile Organic Compounds:
These are chemicals that can be released into the air from cleaning products (mind our intro), building materials, furniture, and others. VOCs can cause ENT irritation, headaches, and other health issues.
Carbon Monoxide
Everyone’s heard of this – this is a colorless, odorless gas that can be produced by gas appliances, fireplaces, and other combustion sources. High levels of carbon monoxide can be deadly.
Important note here – while we’re expanding on our discussion of filtering air, carbon monoxide (CO) cannot be filtered out by a HEPA air filter. Carbon monoxide can be removed by ensuring proper ventilation and detectors are installed in the home. We’ll dial up a dedicated article to CO in the near future.
Radon
This is a radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the soil or rock beneath the foundation. Radon exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer. Again – air filters cannot tackle Radon as well. Oftentimes if Radon is an issue with a home – its best to engage professional help to eliminate (fans or soil depressurization are used to eliminate).
Tobacco smoke
Self-explanatory – other smoke sources are intuitive here as well.
Mold & Mildew
Typically grow in damp or humid conditions, think bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions and other health problems.
Formaldehyde
This is a chemical used in some building materials and household products, such as furniture and flooring. High levels of formaldehyde can cause ENT irritation, along with respiratory issues.
Environmental Protection Agency’s list of indoor air pollutants below – (site):
Fuel-burning combustion appliances
Tobacco smoke and tobacco products
Building materials and furnishings as diverse as:
Deteriorated asbestos-containing insulation
Newly installed flooring, upholstery, or carpet
Cabinetry or furniture made of certain pressed wood products.
Products for household cleaning and maintenance, personal care, or hobbies
Central heating and cooling systems and humidification devices
Excess moisture
Outdoor sources such as:
Radon
Pesticides
Outdoor air pollution
Ok great – we have what types of indoor air pollutants there are, but what are the sources of them?
Let’s discuss.
Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants
Indoor Air Pollution Sources –
Cleaning supplies, paints, or other chemical compounds can place VOC’s in the air.
Oftentimes people may be “healthy” in most aspects of their life but are cleaning with products that are detrimental to their overall health. There has been an emergence of alternative cleaning solutions in the marketplace that reduce or eliminate the VOC’s that traditional or recognized brand cleaners introduce.
In cleaning products, among other things, less is more. We’ll have more up on this rabbit hole on our site in short order – it’s important!
Combustion sources – cooking appliances, fireplaces, heating appliances (certain types – wood or coal – probably uncommon).
Lastly – building materials, could be new materials with compounds emitted from wood or sealants, or could be as simple as degrading/old materials. Mold can also be found within or on materials.
Outdoor Air Pollution Sources –
VOC’s can be found in water supply and can enter indoor air when used inside via showering, cooking, etc. Yes – filter your water…guide/discussion here (internal link to water guide).
Soil – EPA states you can even bring in pollutants from dust or soil when entering house/building.
Smoke from chimney’s – even from neighbors.
Contaminated ground water or soil can emit VOC’s through building.
Construction in the neighborhood can also impact your indoor air quality.
Activities that Impact Air Quality –
Here is an interesting in-depth study on factors that influence indoor air pollution. Feel free to geek out on this one – summary of activities below.
Cooking – natural gas and gas stoves can have a negative effect on IAQ. Turn on fan or ventilation above cooking top if able and yes you guessed it have a kitchen air filter/purifier nearby – consider a high-speed mode when cooking to eliminate VOCs emitted during this process, thanks.
Cleaning – yes cleaning the home can leave unwanted airborne pollutants circling your living environment
Filter the air and/or put air filters on boosted setting
Read our discussion on cleaner / healthier home cleaning products (here)
Air Fresheners – these are basically indoor air contaminants, oftentimes scents can even disrupt the endocrine system (source). Have you heard of the expression fragrance is the new smoking?
Pesticides – Insect Prevention in and outside of the home can impact indoor air quality.
Poor Indoor Air Quality and Potential Health Effects
Here is a list (not comprehensive) of what downstream health effects may be from indoor air pollutants or indoor air pollution. It is not meant to alarm but inform – and if one takes the indoor air quality seriously – can easily be avoided.
Dementia – Poor indoor air quality can have an effect on dementia – source.
Diabetes – here is a study done evaluating link between poor air quality and diabetes risk. We’d argue there are a few other major factors to eliminate diabetes risk before air quality – but hey might as well filter your air on the path to diabetes avoidance!
Cancer – many cancers are linked to poor indoor air quality – breast cancer and liver cancer to name a couple.
Prenatal DNA Damage – study here. This subject is near and dear to many of us at BigFocus – please consider an air filtration strategy when family planning. Poor indoor air quality can be linked to behavioral issues, lower birth weight, and a higher susceptibility to cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic lung diseases – source.
Resources to Measure Air Quality –
These resources are focused on AQI so use these as part of your overall analysis. Oftentimes the approach can be assume the worst and overcorrect w/ an air filter strategy in the home.
We also have a dedicated article on how to test indoor air quality (internal link).
AQI from the EPA – you can simply enter your zip code to receive a snapshot of the air quality in your area
Purple Air – this map is similar to the AQI map from the EPA, however PurpleAir also has sensors available for those wishing to monitor indoor or outdoor air quality
Global Air Quality Map – traveling or interested in air quality across the globe, check this out.
Now for IAQ – the best approach here is to measure CO2. Here’s why – this study concluded that CO2 levels are seemingly good indicators of particle pollution in an indoor space. High CO2 concentrations occur in poorly ventilated and purified areas (this confirms our previous analysis that poor ventilation is one of the biggest culprits in poor IAQ). You can obtain cheap CO2 sensors for your home if desired.
Our take is again – assume the worst and plan accordingly.
Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Below are some ways to improve indoor air quality and remove any excess indoor air pollutants.
Regular Ventilation – Open windows and doors to allow fresh outdoor air to circulate through your space. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and pollutants. Consider using an air exchange system or mechanical ventilation for better control over airflow.
Air Filters and Purifiers – Invest in high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Look for air purifiers that have additional features like activated carbon filters for removing odors and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Humidity Control: Maintain optimal indoor humidity levels (30-50%) to prevent mold growth and minimize dust mites. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas to reduce excess moisture, and use humidifiers in dry climates to add moisture.
Regular Cleaning: Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery regularly using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. Dust surfaces with microfiber cloths or electrostatic dusting tools to trap and remove particles. Wash bedding, curtains, and other textiles frequently to reduce allergens.
Reduce or Eliminate Smoking: Do not smoke indoors, as tobacco smoke contains harmful chemicals that can severely degrade indoor air quality.
Control Allergens: Keep pets groomed and their living areas clean. Use allergen-proof covers for mattresses and pillows. We also recommend washing sheets on a weekly basis w/ hot water, clean detergent, and baking soda.
Replace HVAC filters regularly and consider using high-efficiency filters.
Limit VOCs: Choose low-VOC or VOC-free paints, cleaning products, and household items. Allow newly purchased items to “off-gas” in a well-ventilated area before bringing them indoors.
Houseplants: Certain indoor plants, such as spider plants, snake plants, and peace lilies, can help filter and improve air quality by absorbing pollutants.
Avoid Excess Moisture: Repair leaks and address water damage promptly to prevent mold growth. Use exhaust fans or open windows when cooking or showering to reduce moisture buildup.
Regular HVAC Maintenance: Schedule professional maintenance for your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system to ensure it operates efficiently and circulates clean air.
Radon Testing: Consider testing for radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes. If high levels are detected, take appropriate measures to mitigate it.
Monitor Air Quality: Use indoor air quality monitors to track pollutant levels and receive real-time feedback on the effectiveness of your efforts.
Regularly Replace and/or Clean Carpets – Consider replacing wall-to-wall carpets with hard flooring or low-pile carpets, which are easier to clean and trap fewer allergens.
Tips from the Environmental Protection Agency
The Big Picture –
It’s funny when you look at indoor air quality – you think ok let’s filter it and we’re good. Sometimes it’s not as simple. Generally, think you’re good with:
Keeping a clean house with proper cleaning products
Monitoring quality of materials in house
Having proper ventilation to outside air
Filtering your air w/ a combo of HEPA filters in HVAC system and using portable HEPA air filters.
Throwing up a few Carbon Monoxide monitors around the house – some can even be connected to a home security system
Look, you’re not going to be surprised but the EPA recommendations for proper air quality and other governing bodies are vague. You can measure the IAQ or AQI six ways to Sunday, but our suggestion is to assume the air in your living environment (what you can control) needs improvement. What is the best way to do that? Yes, you guessed it, filter your indoor air – portable filters/purifiers along w/ whole house filter solutions. There are great portable solutions that can cover significantly large space. If the poor health effects highlighted in this article aren’t enough – we’re unsure what will be. Spend a little bit of cash for the long-term health of you and yours. Think of it this way, once you’ve implemented the air filter solution across your environment all you must worry about is replacing the filters periodically.
This may appear overwhelming but good indoor air quality can become second nature! Please review our other articles on air quality – specifically what are the effects of poor indoor air quality on your health (link). And if the above isn’t convincing enough – you’ll be on board after that reading through that!