In recent years, awareness of PM2.5 has grown significantly, with many people taking steps to protect themselves from outdoor pollution. However, few realize that indoor air quality can be just as dangerous. According to Xu Xiuyi, a director at Xuanwu Hospital’s Department of Thoracic Surgery, indoor PM2.5 levels can be just as high—or even worse—than those outdoors. The main culprits include smoking, cooking fumes, and materials used in home decoration, which all contribute to harmful particulate matter buildup.
Smoking is the leading cause of indoor PM2.5 exceeding safe limits
Smoke from cigarettes is one of the most significant sources of indoor air pollution. In rooms where people smoke, up to 90% of the PM2.5 comes from secondhand smoke. These tiny particles are often smaller than 2.5 microns, meaning nearly all of them qualify as PM2.5. Secondhand smoke carries the same risks. Even if you can’t see the smoke, the presence of a noticeable odor indicates that PM2.5 levels have already doubled.
Moreover, smoking leads to what’s known as "third-hand smoke." The microscopic particles from tobacco can cling to clothes, walls, furniture, carpets, hair, and skin, lingering for long periods and spreading throughout the home. This makes it difficult to fully eliminate the dangers of indoor pollution.
Kitchen activities also play a major role in increasing indoor PM2.5. Cooking fuels like gas or oil produce fine particles from incomplete combustion, and cooking fumes can quickly raise PM2.5 levels. Without proper ventilation or window opening, these pollutants can accumulate and become hazardous.
Decorative materials such as paints, wood panels, adhesives, and wall coatings release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene. These substances not only pollute the air but also continue to emit harmful gases over time, contributing to the formation of PM2.5 particles.
Dust accumulation is another key factor affecting indoor air quality. Items like bedding, under the bed, carpets, and household appliances can trap dust and other pollutants, making it harder to maintain clean air indoors.
Indoor PM2.5 Prevention Is Critical
Zhi Xiu emphasized that indoor PM2.5 particles are generally smaller and more toxic due to their ability to absorb harmful chemicals. Therefore, preventing indoor PM2.5 is even more crucial 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 inside, 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 each meal, make sure to open the window to refresh the air. When frying or cooking at high heat, increase ventilation to reduce particle buildup.
Second, avoid smoking indoors. When cooking, try to use less hot oil and invest in a good range hood to capture fumes effectively.
Third, choose eco-friendly materials for home decoration and add more green plants. Plants like spider plants, aloe vera, and snake plants can help absorb harmful substances such as formaldehyde. Flowers like jasmine, cloves, and honeysuckle release bactericidal compounds that can kill bacteria in the air and reduce the spread of pathogens.
Tip: For more information on improving indoor air quality and staying updated on industry trends, follow the official WeChat account of Jiuzheng Building Materials Network or @ä¹æ£å»ºæ网 on Weibo.
Floor Paint Trowel,Floor Paint Epoxy Trowel,Trowels For Floor Paints,Floor Paint Manganess Steel Trowel
Jiangmen Nichiyo Decorative Material Co.,Ltd. , https://www.nichiyopt.com