Improving indoor air quality
Substances released by tobacco, vaping, and cannabis products, household cleaning products, and paint can end up in the air in our homes. These contaminants can be dangerous, particularly for pregnant women, babies and young children.
Babies and children are more sensitive to indoor air contaminants because their organs are still developing. Asthma, otitis, bronchitis and pneumonia are more common in children exposed to poor air quality. Exposure to tobacco smoke also increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (see Sudden infant death syndrome). There are various steps you can take to maintain indoor air quality.
Reduce the presence of contaminants
Limit indoor air contaminants by cutting back on the use of chemical products (e.g., certain household cleaners), candles, incense, scent diffusers, and sprays. Smoking or vaping outdoors is also strongly recommended, as several hazardous products found in smoke and vapour are released into the air.
Ensure proper ventilation
Ventilation brings in fresh air and removes contaminants from indoor air. You can ensure good ventilation by opening windows regularly, even in the winter. Using an air exchanger also contributes to proper ventilation in your home. Make sure filters are well maintained. Turn on the kitchen range hood to remove cooking smoke, and use the bathroom fan to get rid of excess humidity.
Good to know...
In some situations (e.g., a home near a highway), the use of a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter may be considered, as long as it’s well properly selected, used, and maintained.