Home air quality: 7 tips for your home

1. Limit humidity in your home

Excessive humidity in the home encourages the growth of dust mites, mould, and bacteria. In winter, humidity levels should hover around 40% and should not exceed 55% in summer. To reduce humidity:

• Run the kitchen range hood.
• Use the bathroom exhaust fan.
• Dry out any water damage quickly.
• Avoid drying laundry indoors.
• Use an air conditioner.
• If needed, install a dehumidifier.

If mould appears, spray undiluted vinegar to treat small areas before they require professional attention. Problem persisting? Professional advice can be helpful for assessing air quality and recommending appropriate solutions.

2. Ventilate your home every day

Good ventilation plays an important role in renewing indoor air—bringing in fresh air while expelling stale air and pollutants.

• Activate the air exchanger if you have a central ventilation system.
• Otherwise, open windows every day for about 15 minutes, ideally early in the morning, in the evening, or at night, to let in outdoor air.
• Avoid ventilating during smog advisories or when outdoor humidity is very high (above 65% relative humidity).

Mould on windows is often caused by moisture condensing in the cold. Make sure nothing is blocking heat from reaching the window; otherwise, the thermal pane may need to be replaced.

3. Choose low-emission materials

Renovating or redecorating? Opt for products with low volatile organic compound (VOC) content:

• Paints
• Solvents
• Adhesives and varnishes
• Building materials
• Furniture and flooring

Look for the EcoLogo certification. During demolition work, find out whether asbestos may be present, and minimize dust by working outdoors whenever possible.

4. Maintain your ventilation systems

Ventilation systems accumulate large amounts of dust and debris over time. To limit contaminants in the home and maintain good indoor air quality:

• Clean or replace filters regularly.
• Drain standing water from air conditioners.
• Make sure outdoor ducts are not blocked.

Ventilation duct cleaning (heating, heat pump, air conditioner) should be carried out by a professional every 5 to 10 years.

5. Clean your home regularly

Regular upkeep reduces dust, allergens, and contaminants:

• Use a HEPA vacuum with a HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air).
• Dust with a damp cloth.
• Place an entry mat to limit outdoor contaminants (dust, chemicals, mould).

Cleaning products can also affect indoor air quality. White vinegar and baking soda are excellent allies for air quality, as they release no VOCs. Find more tips in our advice on How to clean your home the eco-friendly way.

6. Test for radon

Radon is an odourless, invisible gas that can enter your home undetected and cause serious health problems, including lung cancer. To detect radon in your home:

• Install a dosimeter (simple and inexpensive).
• Leave it in place for a minimum of 3 months.
• Have the results analyzed by a certified laboratory.

If levels exceed 200Bq/m³, professional sub-slab depressurization solutions may be required.

7. Avoid air fresheners

Scented candles, sprays, and diffusers can release a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—chemicals that are toxic to your health. They can contribute to:

• Poor indoor air quality
• Irritation or headaches
• Respiratory problems, and even cancer

Address unpleasant odours at the source, ventilate, or use a mechanical ventilation system. Improving the air quality in your home over the long term comes down to good habits: reducing humidity, ventilating regularly, choosing healthy materials, and maintaining your systems. Looking for tips on maintaining your home efficiently? Our advisors are here to help!