The holiday season is full of baking, decorations, and cozy gatherings. Unfortunately, many of these traditions can hurt your home’s indoor air quality. From artificial trees to scented candles, some choices can release pollutants that impact your health. Learn how to celebrate safely by keeping your home’s air clean and fresh.
Festive Candles and Air Fresheners
Plug-in air fresheners and scented candles are popular holiday home items, but they can emit soot and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Paraffin candles release toluene and benzene that can irritate the lungs or trigger asthma and allergies when burned. Instead, choose beeswax or soy candles with cotton wicks, and use essential oil diffusers in moderation. If you enjoy the holidays more with the aroma of pine or baked goods, try natural options like simmering orange peels or cinnamon sticks for festive scents free of pollutants.
Artificial Trees and Holiday Decorations
Artificial ornaments, wreaths, and trees frequently have PVC and other plastics that can emit off-gassing chemicals. Whenever you can, choose a real tree from a local farm, and water it regularly to keep it from drying out. If you do use artificial decorations, buy low-emission or PVC-free materials. Wipe them down before you display them to remove mold spores and dust. Running an air purifier unit in common areas and your kitchen can help capture air-borne particles from artificial decorations stored away most of the year.
Fireplaces and Wood-Burning Traditions
A crackling fire creates a cozy atmosphere, but burning wood in a fireplace can release carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and other pollutants. Poor ventilation lets smoke seep into living spaces, increasing respiratory risks and reducing air quality. Make sure your chimney is unobstructed and clean, and use seasoned, dry wood for minimized smoke production. An electric or gas fireplace insert provides ambiance and warmth with less pollution.
Cleaning and Decorating With Strong Chemicals
Deep cleaning your home before hosting guests or parties makes a good impression, but using harsh chemical polishes, disinfectants, and sprays can release irritants and VOCs into the air. Use fragrance-free or natural cleaning products whenever possible, such as simple solutions of lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda. Open doors and windows when cleaning so fresh air can circulate through your home.
Keeping Your Air Fresh All Season Long
Maintaining a healthy holiday home has to include awareness of any air pollutants that might be hiding around you. From decorating to cooking, every small change helps preserve the holiday spirit and protect your home’s indoor air quality. Using natural cleaning alternatives and improving ventilation are two easy, practical steps you can take. For professional help with indoor air quality concerns in Athens, GA, contact Jordan Air today for a home assessment and trustworthy solutions.
