Most of us don’t think twice about the air inside our homes. But the truth is, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. And considering we spend roughly 90% of our time indoors, it makes sense to start caring about what we’re actually breathing.
If you’ve been waking up congested, dealing with allergies, or just want to create a cleaner, healthier space, here are simple, practical ways to improve your indoor air quality without overcomplicating things.
Keep Your Home Clean — But Smartly
Vacuuming and dusting regularly helps reduce airborne particles, but not all cleaning routines are equally effective. Focus on places that trap allergens and pollutants, like rugs, upholstered furniture, and air vents. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter — it captures finer particles that traditional vacuums miss.
Also, avoid harsh chemical cleaners that leave fumes hanging in the air. Go for natural alternatives or products labeled as low-VOC (volatile organic compounds). They’re less likely to contribute to indoor air pollution.
Let Fresh Air In (Even in Winter)
One of the simplest ways to clear out stale air is to open your windows — yes, even when it’s cold. A few minutes of ventilation each day can reduce indoor pollutant levels dramatically. Cross-ventilation (opening windows on opposite sides of your home) is even more effective. It helps flush out dust, smoke, and odors that tend to hang around.
If you live in an area with poor outdoor air quality or suffer from seasonal allergies, check your local air quality index before opening up. Use short ventilation bursts to reduce exposure if needed.
Use Air Filters and Purifiers That Actually Work
Air purifiers are everywhere now — but not all of them do what they promise. Look for purifiers with HEPA filters, which are proven to trap 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. That includes pollen, pet dander, and even some bacteria.
Also, check your HVAC filters. A dirty or clogged filter doesn’t just reduce airflow — it can circulate pollutants back into your living space. Experts recommend checking your filters every 1 to 3 months and replacing them as needed.
If you’re not sure where to start, companies like Modern PURAIR offer indoor air quality testing and duct cleaning services. Sometimes the biggest issues are hiding in your ventilation system — and you wouldn’t know it until it’s professionally cleaned. If you’re constantly dealing with dust or allergy symptoms, getting your ductwork checked might be worth it.
Add Houseplants — But Don’t Rely on Them Alone
Yes, plants can help. NASA famously studied how houseplants remove pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene from the air. But here’s the catch: you’d need a jungle’s worth of plants to make a big difference.
Still, certain plants are low-maintenance and do offer some benefit. Try adding:
- Spider plants – great for beginners
- Snake plants – handle low light and irregular watering
- Peace lilies – filter multiple toxins (just keep them away from pets)
- Pothos – hardy and fast-growing
- Areca palms – humidify the air naturally
Think of plants as a nice bonus — not a fix-all.
Control Humidity to Keep Mold and Dust Mites Down
High humidity makes your home a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and dust mites. Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. You can measure this with an inexpensive hygrometer.
If it’s too humid, a dehumidifier can help — especially in basements or bathrooms. On the other hand, if the air is too dry (common in winter), a humidifier can ease dry skin and respiratory issues. Just be sure to clean it regularly, or it can add bacteria to the air instead of helping.
Skip Scented Sprays and Candles
They smell great, but most air fresheners, incense, and scented candles release chemicals that can irritate your lungs. Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates and formaldehyde, which aren’t exactly what you want to be breathing in.
If you want your place to smell good, try essential oil diffusers with natural oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) or simmer herbs and citrus on the stove for a DIY air freshener.
Final Thoughts
Cleaner indoor air doesn’t require a total lifestyle overhaul. It’s about making consistent, low-effort changes — keeping your space clean, ventilating smartly, checking your filters, and getting professional help when needed. Considering how much time we spend inside, small steps can lead to big health benefits.
If you’re unsure about what’s lurking in your air, it might be time to schedule an indoor air quality test. It’s one of those things that pays off quietly, but consistently.