Indoor air can be polluted by many chemicals and gases. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted by many household products and materials – things like paints, varnishes, cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and even new furniture can release VOCs into the air.

How Iowa homes are built and insulated affects your indoor air. Newer homes in Iowa are often built airtight for energy efficiency, which can trap pollutants indoors. Whenever the weather and outdoor air quality permit, open windows to let in fresh air.

Indoor sources of smoke include cigarettes, cigars, candles and the fireplace. Wood smoke contains tiny particles and chemicals that can linger in a tightly sealed home. If you use a fireplace or wood stove in winter, make sure it’s well-ventilated and the chimney is clean.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless and toxic gas. Carbon monoxide is found in combustion fumes, such as those produced by cars and trucks, small gasoline engines, lanterns, burning charcoal and wood, and any heating system or appliance that burns gas, oil , wood, propane or kerosene.

Low carbon monoxide levels can cause headaches (often described as feeling like a tight hat), drowsiness, nausea, and vomiting. More severe exposures can lead to carbon monoxide symptoms including disorientation, loss of consciousness, coma, seizures, respiratory failure, and cardiac arrest.

In Iowa in 2023, there were 210 emergency department visits, 11 hospitalizations, and 11 deaths due to unintentional, non-fire carbon monoxide exposure. The CDC strongly recommends installing battery-operated or battery-backup carbon monoxide alarms/detectors near every sleeping area in your home.

Pesticides can be harmful to your indoor air quality. Pesticide poisoning can cause serious health issues including headaches, rash, eye irritation, tremors and other negative effects. It is interesting to note that pesticides are also sprayed inside airplanes and can cause health issues. When possible, use natural methods of pest control.

Fragrances can also affect your indoor air. The CDC prohibits scented or fragranced products in their offices including incense, candles, diffusers, potpourri, air fresheners, fragranced deodorizers, and fragrance-emitting devices of any kind. The CDC encourages employees to be as fragrance-free as possible.

Various chemicals are widely used in household products and home furnishings, including paint, carpet, LVP and other flooring products, fabrics, cleaning products, and construction materials. Make healthy choices to reduce and eliminate chemicals inside your home.