Top 5 Hidden Indoor Air Pollutants Affecting Indian Homes and How to Deal with Them

uBreathe
Oct 7
3 min read

When we think of pollution, we usually picture crowded roads, honking vehicles, or industrial smog. But what if the biggest threats to your health were hiding inside your home?

Indoor air pollution in India is a growing concern, and recent studies have revealed alarming figures. As of 2024, indoor air pollution is responsible for a significant portion of the overall air quality deterioration in urban areas. A United Nations study highlights that indoor air can contribute between 22% to 52% of the total pollution, and in many cases, it can be five times worse than outdoor air pollution. Factors like toxic gases, particulate matter (PM 2.5), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present inside homes and offices are posing serious health risks, ranging from respiratory issues to long-term diseases like cancer and heart conditions — image via https://www.iqair.com/

Indoor air pollution in Indian homes is a silent yet significant issue that often goes unnoticed. While dust and smoke are the usual suspects, there are hidden sources of indoor air pollution that could be impacting your health in ways you didn’t expect. Let’s uncover 5 surprising Indoor Air Pollutants Affecting Indian Homes and learn how to tackle them effectively.

1. Incense Sticks and Scented Candles

Incense sticks and candles are an integral part of many Indian households, used during prayers or for relaxation. However, burning them releases fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and harmful chemicals like benzene and toluene, which can linger in the air and cause respiratory problems.

How to Tackle It:

Choose natural alternatives like essential oil diffusers or beeswax candles.
Ensure proper ventilation when burning incense or candles.

2. Cleaning Products with VOCs

That fresh, lemon-scented floor cleaner may leave your home spotless but could also be releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These compounds can cause headaches, dizziness, and long-term health risks.

How to Tackle It:

Use eco-friendly cleaning products free from harsh chemicals.
Try DIY cleaners made with vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.

3. Cooking Practices in Unventilated Kitchens

Indian cooking, with its frying, tempering, and spices, is delicious but can be a major source of indoor pollution. Gas stoves and deep-frying release carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and grease particles that degrade air quality.

How to Tackle It:

Install a high-quality exhaust fan or chimney to filter out pollutants.
Minimize deep-frying and use low-flame cooking techniques.

Also read : https://www.ubreathe.in/post/india-s-most-polluted-cities-ranked-by-aqi-latest-data

4. Off-Gassing from New Furniture and Paint

Love the smell of new furniture or fresh paint? That “new” smell is actually a sign of formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals being released into the air. Off-gassing from new materials can continue for weeks or even months.

How to Tackle It:

Opt for low-VOC or no-VOC paints and furniture made from sustainable materials.
Let new items air out outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces before bringing them inside.

5. Pesticides and Mosquito Repellents

To combat India’s persistent pest problem, we rely on sprays, coils, and plug-ins. Unfortunately, many of these solutions release toxic chemicals, which can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.

How to Tackle It:

Switch to natural pest control options like neem oil sprays or ultrasonic repellents.
Avoid overusing chemical-based products, especially in small, enclosed spaces.

Why Should You Care About Indoor Air Quality?

5 surprising sources of indoor air pollution in Indian homes, including incense sticks, cleaning products, cooking fumes, new furniture, and pesticides, and how to tackle them for better health. — image via pinterest.com

We spend nearly 90% of our time indoors, whether at home, work, or other indoor spaces. While outdoor pollution grabs most of the headlines, the air inside your home can often be 2 to 5 times more polluted than the air outside, according to studies by the World Health Organization (WHO). This makes indoor air quality (IAQ) a critical factor in maintaining your health and well-being.

How uBreathe Can Help

uBreathe, an innovative startup, is providing a sustainable solution with its plant-based air purifier. By combining nature’s air-purifying abilities with advanced technology, uBreathe’s system uses phytoremediation to clean the air naturally. This approach amplifies the purifying effect of plants through a centrifugal fan, which increases the air flow to the plant roots, allowing them to filter out harmful pollutants such as PM 2.5 and VOCs. This is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional mechanical air purifiers, which often require costly, disposable filters

Tackling indoor air pollution doesn’t have to be complicated. With uBreathe, you can create a healthier indoor environment effortlessly. Our innovative products combine nature-inspired technology with modern design to purify the air you breathe.

uBreathe Mini Lite | Planter | Room Air Purifier | Pack of 5

Buy Now

Visit www.ubreathe.in to learn more about how you can take control of your indoor air quality and breathe better every day.

uBreathe is an organization that focuses on Air wellness systems and Plant-based Air cleaners designed for your space, supported by the goodness of nature & the power of technology. It was empowering businesses to be more sustainable with improved air quality that is sustained through our air-wellness systems.

BY DEBOPRIYA CHANDRA