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Think you’re keeping your home’s air clean? You might be cleaning your air wrong without even realizing it.
Experts warn that common mistakes—like using ineffective filters or skipping proper ventilation—can leave harmful pollutants behind.
In this quick guide, learn why most people are cleaning their air wrong and what you can do to improve indoor air quality the right way.
6 Common Air Cleaning Mistakes Everyone Makes
Here are six expert-backed mistakes to avoid:
1. Using the Wrong Air Purifier—Or Not Using One at All
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Air purifiers are one of the most effective tools for improving indoor air quality—but only if used correctly.
Many people purchase small, underpowered units or those with ineffective filters that only capture large particles. Some purifiers are little more than glorified fans with no real filtration power.
The Right Way to Use an Air Purifier
Choose a purifier that features a true HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter for maximum effectiveness.
HEPA filters trap microscopic particles like dust, pollen, and mold spores, while carbon filters absorb odors, gases, and VOCs.
Also, make sure the unit is rated for the room’s size—an underpowered purifier won’t be able to clean the air effectively.
Place air purifiers in high-traffic areas such as bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices, and run them continuously for best results.
Related: The 7 Best Air Purifiers
2. Relying Too Much on Air Fresheners and Scented Candles
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Many households rely on air fresheners, plug-ins, sprays, or scented candles to make their homes smell pleasant. However, what smells clean isn’t always clean.
These products often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—harmful airborne chemicals that can irritate the lungs, trigger allergies, and contribute to long-term health risks, including hormone disruption and increased cancer risk.
When burned or sprayed, these products release compounds like formaldehyde, benzene, and phthalates, which linger in the air and cling to soft surfaces like curtains and upholstery.
Ironically, the very products marketed to improve air quality may be making it worse.
Better Alternatives
Switch to unscented or naturally scented options. Beeswax candles, soy candles made with essential oils, and essential oil diffusers with 100% pure oils are safer choices.
Most importantly, focus on eliminating odors at the source instead of masking them.
3. Skipping Regular Air Filter Maintenance
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Air filters are crucial to keeping indoor air clean, especially in homes with HVAC systems, air purifiers, or central heating and cooling.
Yet, many homeowners forget to replace or clean them on time, allowing dust, pollen, and other particles to circulate freely throughout the home.
A clogged filter not only reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system but also fails to trap airborne pollutants.
In some cases, dirty filters can even become a source of contamination, spreading bacteria and mold spores.
Expert Tip
Check your filters monthly and replace them every 60 to 90 days—or more frequently if you have pets, allergies, or live in a dusty environment.
For best results, use HEPA-certified filters, which are capable of capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.
4. Overlooking Indoor Humidity Levels
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Humidity isn’t just about comfort—it directly impacts air quality. Excess moisture encourages the growth of mold, mildew, and dust mites, all of which can trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms.
Conversely, overly dry air can cause irritation of the respiratory tract, skin, and eyes.
Many homes unknowingly fall outside the ideal range of 30%–50% relative humidity, which can contribute to poor air quality and create an unhealthy living environment.
How to Fix It
Use a digital hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in different areas of your home. If the air is too moist, especially in basements or bathrooms, invest in a dehumidifier.
If the air is too dry (often in winter), use a cool mist humidifier to add moisture back into the air. Balance is key to maintaining both comfort and air quality.
5. Ignoring “Invisible” Indoor Pollutants
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New furniture, freshly painted walls, and synthetic carpets may look beautiful—but they often release toxic chemicals into the air through a process called off-gassing.
These chemicals can linger for months or even years, slowly contaminating your indoor environment.
Common off-gassing pollutants include formaldehyde, toluene, and flame retardants—all of which are associated with a variety of health problems.
Solutions
Opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints and finishes when remodeling. Choose eco-friendly furniture made with natural materials.
Use houseplants like snake plants, spider plants, or peace lilies to help absorb some pollutants.
Open windows daily to encourage fresh air circulation, even if only for a few minutes.
6. Vacuuming Without a HEPA Filter
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Most traditional vacuums only pick up visible dirt while releasing fine particles back into the air.
If your vacuum doesn’t have a HEPA filter, you’re likely recirculating dust, allergens, and microscopic debris instead of removing them.
What to Do
Invest in a vacuum cleaner with a built-in HEPA filter and sealed body to ensure particles are fully trapped.
Vacuum all floors at least twice a week, especially if you have carpets, rugs, or pets. Don’t forget soft surfaces like upholstery and curtains, which can harbor allergens and dust.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, if you’ve been cleaning your air wrong, you’re not alone—but now is the time to change that. By understanding the most common mistakes and taking simple, expert-backed steps, you can significantly improve your indoor air quality.
From choosing the right air purifiers to maintaining proper airflow, small changes can make a big difference. Don’t let hidden pollutants compromise your health—start cleaning your air the right way today.
