If the view outside looks a little more gloomy than usual, that’s because haze season is upon us. However, it is important to know that haze does more than just temporarily bring grey skies. It is an atmospheric condition that’s made up of smoke, dust, and moisture with serious health hazards like respiratory illnesses. No doubt, it’s crucial to keep the air clean at home until the smog clears.
That said, how exactly can one keep the haze at bay?
1. Close windows and doors
This may seem like a no-brainer but it is important to limit the haze that’s seeping into your home. As the haze rises to the unhealthy level (101-200 PSI) and beyond, the MOH health advisory to follow would inevitably inform the public to minimise outdoor activities for a reason. Stay on the safe side and shut your windows and doors tight. If it gets too stuffy, switch on the fan or air conditioner to cool the home.
2. Switch on the air purifier
Air purifiers ensure the air inside your home is clean and haze-free. The air particles are passed through filters, trapping the dust on its way out. This results in a cleaner air that’s significantly less haze-y. You’ll be able to find these air purifiers at any electronics store, with a wide range of prices that won’t put too much of a dent in your wallet.
3. Get indoor, air-purifying plants
Did you know mother nature has her own air purifiers? You don’t even have to plug them in – but don’t forget to water them! Fun fact: purifying plants are able to reduce the amount of carbon monoxide particles in the air without needing to fork out on top-of-the-line purifiers. Drop by your nearest nursery and look out for peace lilies, areca palms, English Ivy or the Golden Pothos.
4. Mop the floors instead of vacuum
Does your cleaning routine involve vacuuming before mopping the floors? This may need to change during haze season. According to Health Hub, vacuuming or sweeping should be avoided as it produces unsettled dust in the air. Instead, you may need to skip the first step and jump straight to mopping if the home needs some sprucing up.
5. Avoid smoking
Smoking is a big no-no on a good day and an even worse thing to do when the air is already thick with carbon monoxide particles. Avoid smoking altogether to keep the air clean for you and your family. Studies show that second-hand smoke and even third-hand smoke (the particles that linger on clothing, hair and fabric long after the cigarette has been stubbed out) are in fact, more dangerous than other types of pollution.
Making your home a haze-free zone is not an exercise in futility. On the bright side of things, it may kickstart greener habits that one may embrace even when the PSI reading is zero. Don’t forget to keep an N95 mask on hand in case the condition worsens and drink the daily recommended amount of water to stay hydrated!
Do you know that not all paint is the same? There are paint products that break down volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect formaldehyde and unpleasant odours for cleaner air. It also eliminates 99.9% of infection-causing bacteria and specially formulated as an all-round solution to combat indoor air pollution – giving you and your loved ones a healthier home. Learn more about our home painting service with our recommended partners! Or call 6886 9009 now.
Source: Health Hub, NEA
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