According to an estimate by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the quality of air inside our homes and offices is 2-5% more polluted as compared to outside. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) suggests that in order to prevent diseases related to respiratory system ,like asthma, one should have minimum exposure to environmental allergens and irritants. Americans those who spend 90% of their time indoors should find a way to reduce airborne pollutants and allergens that they breathe inside homes. Even low levels of indoor air pollutants might have serious effect on the respiratory system.. Some sources of air pollution inside home are:

• Smoking
• Pets
  
  
• Carpets
  
  
• Out gassing from furniture, insulation and building materials (especially particle board and plywood)
  
  
• Cleaning and Personal Care Products
  
  
• Paints & Varnishes
  
  
• Dust Mites
  
  
• Room fresheners
  
  
• Combustion Appliances (gas heaters, stoves, etc.)
  
  
• Fin
  e particulate matter from outdoor pollution and forest fires
  
  
• Mold
  
  

Indoor air pollution in homes can be reduced in following ways:

1. Controlling the source of pollution : This includes the use of the products those are non polluting and non toxic. For example use use low emission paints & varnishes, carpets and furniture .Similarly make use of natural and non toxic cleaning and personal care products. Instead of using synthetic carpet you can beautify your home with tiles or hardwood floors. Get your combustion appliances serviced regularly.
   
   
2. Increasing Ventilation: Increasing ventilation means getting more fresh air into your home by keeping the windows and doors open. This will allow fresh natural air to be inside the house. You can also turn on kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans and mechanical ventilation systems.
4. Cleaning the Air: Vacuum and clean your home regularly to keep the level of dust down . Use natural air fresheners.
   
   

You may be able to increase your vitality and health and reduce allergies and asthma attacks along with controlling indoor pollution by taking care of above stated facts.

Tags & Keywords : Indoor air pollution, health & fitness, Air fresheners