Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the air quality within and buildings and structures, especially as it relates to the health and comfort of building occupants. Health effects from indoor air pollutants may be experienced soon after exposure or, possible, years later. This checklist will help you identify and control issues related to poor indoor air quality and environmental conditions.
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Keep doors to the house closed to stop fumes from cars, appliances and chemicals stored in your garage from getting into your home.
Check that doors seal properly to keep pests like mice and cockroaches out of your home.
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Reduce fabric in your living room that dust mites and other allergens can cling to and hide under.
Remove clutter.
Remove dust from ceiling fans, surfaces, and electronics using a microfiber or damp cloth.
Vacuum floors and furniture weekly.
Throw out the throw pillows. They are usually hard to clean, so they can easily collect dust mites and animal dander.
Instead of curtains, hand blinds you can wipe down weekly. If you choose fabric curtains, choose ones you can wash in 130° F hot water regularly.
Wash throw blankets weekly in 130° F hot water.
Replace HVAC filters as recommended by manufacturer.
Check for signs of dampness or moisture on walls and windows.
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Fix leaks coming from your sink, dishwasher and refrigerator water line.
Use exhaust fans and improve ventilation in the kitchen. Air pollution can come from gas powered stoves/oven as well as overheating oils when cooking.
Remove mold - check sinks, inside cabinets, produce bins, trash cans, and refrigerator seals.
Don’t leave sources of water and food out at night for cockroaches. Remember to put away your pet’s dishes.
Use lids on trash cans.
Clean up spills right away.
Don’t let dirty dishes pile up on the counter or in your sink.
Wipe down the tops of your cabinets and vent hood often with warm, soapy water. These areas are often overlooked.
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Vacuum floors and mattress weekly. Replace your mattress every 10 years.
Don’t allow wet towels or damp clothing to pile up.
Replace pillows every two years. Look for zippered allergen protectors to reduce dust mite exposure.
Wash bedding (sheets, pillowcases, blankets, duvets, comforters) weekly in soapy, hot water (130° F). Dry on high heat.
Leave your bed unmade to let it cool and air out. Warmth and moisture from your body encourage dust mite growth!
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Run an exhaust fan in your bathroom for at least 15 to 20 minutes after showering.
Allow towels and washcloths to dry thoroughly after bathing.
Fix any leaks in or near sinks, toilets, tubs and showers.
Clean and remove mold - check windows, showers, tubs, sinks, toilets and inside cabinets.
Check shower curtains for signs of mold/mildew and replace, if necessary.
Clean the exhaust fan covers a few times per year.
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Leave washing machine doors open to help dry out the machine between uses.
Wipe down the inner door for front-loading washing machines to remove excess water.
Check for leaks from the washing machine.
Dry clothes in a dryer instead of line drying.
Make sure the dryer is properly venting outside the home.
Clean the dryer’s lint trap after every use.
Check humidity levels in your laundry room as you may need to increase air flow if humidity is above 50%.
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Store items in containers that stop dust from building up.
Items stored in the attic may be exposed to moisture that can promote mold growth.
Repair any leaks.
Clean roof gutters each season to remove debris.
Make sure your attic has air flow.
Download a copy of the Indoor Air Quality Checklist for personal use or to provide to your clients.
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