How to Naturally Purify Air at Home: 7 Proven Tips That Work

Despite the apparent cleanliness of your home's air, it can be surprisingly more polluted than the air outside, posing a significant health risk. 

Dust, pet hair, mold, cleaning product chemicals, and even cooking can pollute your air. 

Air purifiers can help, but there are also simpler, more affordable, and natural alternatives you can use for your home. Let's explore these straightforward methods that can make your home cleaner and healthier the natural way. 

Why Is Good Air Inside Important?

Dirty air inside is becoming a significant health problem everywhere. Familiar sources like dust, pet hair, mold, smoke, cleaning fluids, and chemicals from furniture and paint can mess up the air. 

Exposure to polluted indoor air over time can lead to a range of health issues, from allergies to respiratory problems. Therefore, it's vital to prioritize the air quality in your living space for your well-being.

1. Bring In Air-Purifying Indoor Plants

Houseplants aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they can also help purify the air. NASA's Clean Air Study found that certain plants can help remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide.

5 Best indoor plants for air purification:

Using plants is one of the most effective ways to improve indoor air quality without the use of chemicals. Below are some top-purifying plants: 

• Areca Palm: Adds moisture and filters out toxins. 
• Peace Lily: Eliminates mold spores in the air. 
• Spider Plant: Easy to grow and combats carbon monoxide. 
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Releases oxygen at night, making it a suitable choice for bedrooms. 
• Aloe Vera: Clears out formaldehyde and benzene; also good for your skin. 

Tip: For optimal results, keep one medium-sized plant for every 100 square feet of space.

2 Open Windows for Natural Ventilation

The easiest way to improve the air quality is to let fresh air in. 

• Open windows on different sides of the room to allow the fresh air to circulate.
• Leave windows open when you're cooking or cleaning.
• Don't leave your windows closed all the time, especially if you live in an airtight home. 
• If your climate or security conditions make ventilation challenging, consider using exhaust fans, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. This will reduce humidity and eliminate smells, smoke, and nasty air. 

This helps naturally eliminate stale air, dampness, and indoor pollutants.

3. Use Natural Air Fresheners

Instead of using artificial air fresheners that can add to the air pollution, consider using natural alternatives like essential oils in a diffuser to clean the air and keep your home smelling fresh. 

• Essential Oil Diffuser: Put a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or tea tree oil in a diffuser.
• Simmer Pots: Boil lemon slices, cinnamon, and cloves in water for a lovely, natural scent.
• Baking Soda or Activated Charcoal: These can absorb odors and trap particles in the air. Place open bowls in corners, closets, or near kitchen bins.

4. DIY Natural Air Fresheners Are Easy To Do

Instead of using those chemical air fresheners from the store, try a homemade air purifying hack like baking soda, lemon, vinegar, and essential oils.

Try this: 

Mix 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and 10 drops of lavender oil in a spray bottle. Please shake it well, and you're ready to neutralize odors. 

This not only helps eliminate odors but also absorbs toxins without introducing new ones. 

5. Keep Things Clean and Dust-Free

Regular cleaning can prevent dust, mold, and allergens from accumulating. 

• Vacuum with a HEPA filter: It traps dust and tiny particles. 
• Wipe down the surface: A damp cloth prevents dust from flying around. 
• Keep bedding and curtains clean: Dust mites love fabrics, so wash them often in hot water. 
• Declutter: Having fewer items means fewer places for dust and bacteria to accumulate.

6. Reduce Synthetic Chemicals and Cleaners 

Many home cleaners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can have a cumulative effect on breathing over time. 

Natural alternatives

• You can use simple natural options such as: 
• Vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda can be used to clean without releasing harmful VOCs into the air.
• Avoid fake air fresheners, strong detergents, and polish sprays. 
• Opt for products labeled "non-toxic" or "plant-based."

Note: This reduces the indoor chemical load, supporting cleaner air.

7. Control Humidity Levels

Maintain a humidity level between 30% and 50% in your home. Excessive humidity can lead to mold and dust mites, while insufficient moisture can cause dry skin and a stuffy nose. 

What can you do?

• Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms. 
• Get plants that soak up moisture. 
•  Fix water leaks ASAP.

3 Quick Tips to Try Natural Air Purifiers At Home

• Go for natural, non-toxic solutions over synthetic fragrances and sprays.
• You can use plants that clean the air, open windows, and make your home smell fresh with air fresheners. 
• You can make your air fresheners by keeping your space clean and clutter-free, and maintaining a low humidity level. 

What Does WHO Say About Indoor Quality?

To stay healthy, the World Health Organization recommends keeping indoor air clean by limiting pollutants like carbon monoxide, PM2.5, nitrogen dioxide, and VOCs. They also suggest maintaining good airflow, avoiding smoky or harsh cleaners, and controlling moisture levels to reduce your risk of breathing and heart problems.

Final Thoughts

You don't have to buy expensive air purifiers to get cleaner air. By making a few quick and easy changes, such as adding some plants, trying natural oils, opening your windows, and reducing your use of chemicals, you can significantly improve the air quality in your home. 

You can easily clean up the air in your house and keep your family healthy. These simple fixes are a cheaper, greener, and safer way to make your home a healthier place to live, whether in a city apartment or a suburban house. 

FAQs

1. Which are the best natural air purifiers for home use?

The best natural air purifiers for the home include snake plant, peace lily, and areca palm. You can also use activated charcoal and essential oil diffusers to remove toxins from the air.

2. Can indoor plants help?

Yes. Indoor plants can help improve air quality. According to NASA's Clean Air Study, certain indoor plants can absorb toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, thereby improving the air quality. 

3. How frequently should I open windows for fresh air?

You should open the windows on opposite sides of your space for at least 15-30 minutes daily to allow for cross ventilation. 

4. What is the best essential oil to clean the air?

Lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, and lemon essential oils can help clean the air and add a pleasant natural aroma.

5. Are chemical air fresheners harmful?

Yes. Many chemical air fresheners release VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which are bad. They irritate the lungs and worsen allergies. 

6. Can I use baking soda to purify the air?

Yes. You can use baking soda to purify the air. However, when kept in open containers around the house, it absorbs odors and some toxins. 

7. How can I naturally dehumidify my house?

A dehumidifier can help, ensure your bathroom and kitchen are well-ventilated, and fix leakages. Additionally, keep plants like a peace lily or a Boston Fern due to their moisture-absorbing properties.