Neat and Knowledgeable.

Cleaning regularly isn’t a novel concept, but the rewards are worth noting. High concentrations of particle pollution (things like dust, soot, and mold spores) cause a host of health problems—from short-term headaches and dizziness to long-term concerns like asthma, memory loss, and lung cancer, per the American Lung Association. Vacuum and dust regularly to keep dust mites and pet dander at bay. Try a damp duster or wall mop to stay on top of baseboards and blinds and hard-to-reach spots like ceilings, doors, and walls. And don’t forget to regularly replace or clean any filters in your home (think HVAC system, vacuum, and dryer).

While you’re at it, check your cleaning supplies. Many household products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to indoor air pollution. Avoid mixing solutions and keep an eye out for common culprits like benzene, ethylene glycol, toluene, and formaldehyde. If you use citrus-or pine-scented cleaning products, check for d-limonene and a-pinene.

Material Things.

VOCs can hide in fabric, carpet, paint, and furniture. Limit your exposure by looking for “zero HAP (hazardous air pollution)” or “low-VOC” labels. Organizations like Green Seal provide helpful lists and gauges for determining the safety of certain products.

Even personal-care items can harbor unwanted compounds—from nail polish and perfume to deodorant and lotion. Particularly in homes with immunocompromised, elderly, or very young residents, small amounts of exposure can pose a risk when compounded over time.

Purifying and Preventative.

While some indoor air pollution is inevitable, investing in a portable air purifier can help remove pollutants and allergens. Look for HEPA-certified filtration and take room size into account. When considering budget, factor in the cost and frequency of replacement filters too.

It’s worth noting that many purifiers don’t remove gas pollutants. If you’re cooking with a gas stove, make sure it’s been adjusted properly to avoid excess amounts of carbon monoxide. Regardless of your cooktop, if your range hood and fan do not vent outside, crack open a window to mitigate recirculation of smoky air.

Smoke in any form—whether from cooking, cigarettes, candles, heat stoves, or fireplaces—greatly reduces the quality of air inside your home. Limit its production when possible and make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are fully functional. When you do reach for that firewood or candle, use dry wood, lighting from the top, and opt for a natural wax like soy or beeswax.

Easy Breezy.

Nature, unsurprisingly, is one of the strongest tools for combatting indoor pollution. Ensuring the air exchange rate—outside air replacing indoor air—remains high is as simple as opening your windows and improving ventilation whenever possible. Houseplants may act as a natural purifier, too (see sidebar for more).

At-home air-quality test kits and monitors exist, but most experts recommend avoiding them unless you suspect exposure to a particular pollutant or begin experiencing persistent health issues. A little time and prevention can help you and your family breathe easy with minimal effort.

/ Written by Victoria Hittner

Photography by Delmaine Donson/E+/Getty Images.