Our CCIAQ experts have come together to share valuable insights on how the holiday season can impact indoor air quality (IAQ). This guide provides a neutral yet authoritative perspective, offering tips for maintaining a breath of fresh air during the festive celebrations.
Deck the Halls, but Watch the Allergens: Decorating homes during the holidays is a cherished tradition, but it may introduce allergens and dust. Our panel of IAQ experts recommends giving decorations a thorough shake or wipe to prevent dust and allergens from settling indoors.
Santa’s Secret Helper: Indoor Plants: For a touch of nature and improved IAQ, our experts suggests incorporating indoor plants into festive decor. Plants act as natural air purifiers, enhancing air quality by removing common pollutants.
Cooking Up a Storm: Ventilate and Celebrate: Acknowledging the kitchen as the heart of holiday celebrations, our team emphasizes the importance of using kitchen exhaust fans to eliminate cooking pollutants and maintain proper ventilation.
Candles and Fireplaces: A Cozy Culprit: While acknowledging the warm ambiance created by candles and fireplaces, our experts recommend using soy or beeswax candles and ensuring proper ventilation to minimize indoor air pollution.
Gift-Wrapping and IAQ: As individuals wrap presents with care, our expert panel advises being mindful of the materials used. Opting for eco-friendly and recyclable materials reduces the introduction of harmful substances into indoor spaces.
Santa’s Air Quality Checklist:
- Ventilation Matters: Our experts emphasize the importance of proper ventilation to exchange stale air with fresh outdoor air.
- Greenery Galore: Our expert panel encourages incorporating indoor plants for a natural boost to IAQ.
- Clean as You Go: Our team recommends regular cleaning to minimize dust, allergens, and pollutants.
- Candle Choices: Our experts advise choosing candles made from natural materials to minimize indoor air pollution.
- Kitchen Care: Our panel stresses the use of exhaust fans to remove cooking fumes and maintain a healthy kitchen environment.
A Breath of Fresh Air for the Holidays: As the holiday season unfolds, our expert panel encourages individuals to unwrap the gift of clean indoor air. By following these IAQ tips, one not only creates a festive atmosphere but also ensures the well-being of loved ones. From the CCIA, we wish everyone a Merry and Healthy Christmas!
For a more in-depth exploration of maintaining indoor air quality during the holidays, we invite readers to download the comprehensive guide here: Module 11 – Indoor Air Quality for Homeowners