Home Indoor Air Quality Checklist

20 items · Home · Easy difficulty · 30 min

Practical steps to reduce indoor pollutants, improve ventilation, and lower VOCs.

• Install carbon monoxide (CO) detectors near sleeping areas on each floor

  Mount at eye level per manufacturer; place outside bedrooms and near fuel-burning appliances.

• Test CO detectors and replace batteries or expired units

  Press the test button monthly; replace batteries yearly or when unit signals low battery.

• Place a radon test kit in the lowest lived-in level or install a radon monitor

  Follow kit instructions and timing; mitigate if levels exceed local action guidelines.

• Set HVAC filter replacement schedule

  Plan replacements based on filter type, pet presence, and allergies.

• Check current HVAC filter type and MERV rating

  Write down exact filter size and MERV to buy correct replacements.

• Keep replacement filters on hand and mark replacement intervals

  Aim for 1–3 month swaps; increase frequency with pets or allergies.

• Choose an air purifier with a true HEPA filter plus activated carbon

  HEPA removes particles; carbon adsorbs odors and many VOCs.

• Match purifier CADR and coverage to the room size

  Check the manufacturer's recommended square footage before buying.

• Place purifier near pollutant sources and avoid obstructions

  Keep off the floor and away from curtains or furniture blocking airflow.

• Open windows to create a cross-breeze for 10–30 minutes daily when outdoor AQI is good

  Check local air quality and pollen levels before ventilating.

• Run bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans during and 10–20 minutes after use

  Helps remove moisture, cooking particles, and fumes at the source.

• Replace high-VOC products with low-VOC alternatives (paints, cleaners, air fresheners)

  Check labels for 'low-VOC' or 'VOC-free' when shopping.

• Store paints, solvents, and cleaners in sealed containers in a ventilated area

  Keep lids tight and store away from living spaces and heat sources.

• Control indoor humidity at 30–50% using a dehumidifier or humidifier

  Measure with a hygrometer and adjust seasonally to prevent mold and dust mites.

• Inspect and repair roof, plumbing, and window leaks to prevent mold

  Fix visible water sources promptly to stop mold growth.

• Clean small mold patches with detergent and dry thoroughly; hire a pro for >10 sq ft

  Wear gloves and an N95; call a specialist for large or recurring infestations.

• Vacuum floors and upholstery weekly using a HEPA-filter vacuum

  Work top-to-bottom and include baseboards and under furniture.

• Wash bedding and curtains every 1–2 weeks to reduce allergens

  Use hot water when fabrics allow; consider allergen-proof covers.

• Add one or two low-maintenance air-cleaning houseplants to living areas

  Try pothos, spider plant, or snake plant; plants supplement but don't replace filtration.

• Ban indoor smoking and avoid incense or open burning; ventilate if needed

  Smoking indoors greatly increases pollutants; designate outdoor areas only.

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