Breathe Better: 7 Simple Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

Breathe Better: 7 Simple Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality at Home

 

Here’s a fun fact (that’s not really fun): the air inside our homes can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside. Surprising, right? We worry about car fumes and city smog, but sometimes the bigger problem is sitting quietly in our living room.

The good news? A few small changes at home can make a huge difference. Here are 7 easy ways to clear the air—literally.

1. Open the Windows (Even for 10 Minutes)

Fresh air is free. Cracking a window—even briefly—lets out stale air and lets in oxygen-rich outdoor air. Aim for cross-ventilation if you can (two windows open across from each other = instant airflow).

2. Go Green with Houseplants 

Plants like peace lilies, spider plants, and snake plants don’t just look pretty—they also absorb toxins and add oxygen. They’re basically low-maintenance roommates who don’t complain.

3. Watch Out for Hidden Polluters

Candles, air fresheners, house sprays… Many of them release invisible particles that stay in the air long after the “fresh scent” fades. Switch to safer alternatives 

4. Clean Smarter, Not Harder

Dust, crumbs, pet dander—all of it floats into the air if it’s not tackled. Use microfiber cloths (they trap more dust), vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter, and avoid cleaners that leave behind strong fumes.

5. Control Humidity

Too much moisture = mold and dust mites. Too little = dry airways. Keep humidity between 40–60%—a dehumidifier or humidifier can help balance it out.

6. Kick Off the Shoes 

Think of shoes as dirt-delivery devices. Leave them at the door to prevent outdoor pollutants, allergens, and—you don’t even want to know what else—from spreading across your floors.

7. Choose Non-Toxic Cleaners

Here’s the thing: what you spray to “clean” shouldn’t make the air dirtier. Opt for non-toxic, low-VOC cleaners that are tough on stains but gentle on your lungs. (This is where Kyma comes in—designed to clean surfaces without polluting the air.)

Take a Deep Breath

Improving indoor air quality isn’t about huge lifestyle changes—it’s about small habits that stack up. Crack a window, add a plant, ditch the harsh sprays, and you’ll feel the difference.