In recent years, awareness of PM2.5 has grown significantly, with many people taking precautions to protect themselves from outdoor air pollution. However, fewer are aware that indoor environments can also be a major source of harmful particulate matter. According to Xu Xiuyi, director of the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Xuanwu Hospital, indoor PM2.5 levels can be just as dangerous as those outside. The three main contributors to indoor PM2.5 are smoking, kitchen fumes, and materials used in home decoration.
Smoking is one of the leading causes of indoor PM2.5 exceeding safe limits
Smoke from cigarettes is a significant contributor to indoor air pollution. In rooms where people smoke, secondhand smoke accounts for about 90% of the total PM2.5 present. The particles released by smoking are typically smaller than or equal to 2.5 microns, meaning nearly all of them qualify as PM2.5. This makes secondhand smoke equally hazardous as direct smoking.
According to Zhi Xiu, even if you can smell smoke in a room, the PM2.5 levels have likely doubled. Additionally, the issue of "third-hand smoke" arises—tiny particles from smoking can settle on clothes, walls, carpets, furniture, hair, and skin, lingering indoors and being carried outside as well.
Kitchens are another major source of indoor particulate matter. Cooking fuels, especially when not fully combusted, release soot and other harmful particles. If not properly ventilated, these particles can quickly accumulate, making PM2.5 levels in the kitchen dangerously high.
Materials used in home decoration also contribute to indoor PM2.5. Paints, marble, plywood, particleboard, foam fillers, wall coatings, plastic veneers, and adhesives often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. These substances emit harmful gases over time, which can lead to the formation of PM2.5 particles.
Dust accumulation is another key factor affecting indoor air quality. Areas such as under the bed, on carpets, and inside household appliances become breeding grounds for dust, which can contain harmful particles and allergens.
Prevention is key when it comes to indoor PM2.5
Zhi Xiu emphasizes that indoor particles are smaller and more toxic due to their ability to absorb harmful chemicals. Therefore, preventing indoor PM2.5 is more critical than managing outdoor pollution. Here are some practical and cost-effective ways to improve indoor air quality:
First, ensure regular ventilation. Especially when there are pollution sources indoors, open windows for at least 10 minutes in the morning, afternoon, and evening during winter. Use an air purifier or ventilate for at least half an hour. After cooking, always open the window to refresh the air. When frying or deep-frying, make sure to increase ventilation. Outdoor air conditions should also be considered before opening windows.
Second, avoid smoking indoors. When cooking, use less oil and opt for a good range hood to reduce fumes.
Third, choose eco-friendly building materials and add more indoor plants. Plants like chlorophyll, aloe vera, and tiger-tail orchid can help absorb formaldehyde and other pollutants. Flowers such as jasmine, clove, honeysuckle, and morning glory release bactericidal agents that can kill certain bacteria in the air and help prevent diseases like tuberculosis and typhoid.
Tips: You can also follow the official WeChat account of Jiuzheng Building Materials Network or @ä¹æ£å»ºæ网 (official Weibo) to stay updated on industry news and learn more about improving indoor air quality.
Floor Paint Scraper,Wall Plaster Scraper,Floor Coating Squeegee Frame,Plastering Epoxy Floor Painting Squeegee
Jiangmen Nichiyo Decorative Material Co.,Ltd. , https://www.nichiyopt.com