Domestic cleaning 'improves air quality', Domestic Cleaning

Domestic cleaning 'improves air quality' - 20/07/2008

Maintaining the quality of air indoors is as important as avoiding pollution outdoors, according to one expert.

While unlikely to be considered a primary concern for domestic cleaners, indoor air quality can still be detrimental to our health.

According to Valerie Johnson, volunteer indoor-air quality tester at the Community Lead Education and Reduction Corps (CLEARCorps) in Washington, US, those in carpeted homes are most at risk.

"If the majority of the home is carpeted, it is likely there will be more pollution in the home, than in a home with hard-surfaced flours," she told Red Orbit.

However, domestic cleaners need only take a few simple steps to improve air quality in the home.

While carpet cleaning is somewhat of a no-brainer, cleaners can be extra thorough with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter-equipped vacuum cleaner.

Having a good doormat at each entrance and opening the windows to allow fresh air into the home will also improve things significantly.

Meanwhile, parents in Sacramento, California are taking their children to pollution-free indoor play areas on high-pollution days in a bid to protect their children's lungs.