Is Your House Killing You?

Indoor pollution and hidden toxins all around the house are hazardous to our health. Here’s how to make your home safer

- Debra Waters

Pollution is known to cause or worsen many health problems, but some of the things that make our homes lovely – from cleaning products to the paint we use to spruce things up – can make us ill. According to the My Health My Home campaign, indoor air can contain up to 900 potentially dangerous chemicals, particles and biological materials that can cause various health problems. Because we spend, on average, 90% of our lives indoors, we’re being exposed regularly.

‘Cleaning, decorating and cooking can all add to the amount of harmful toxins in the air,’ warns Wendy Davies, Health Advice Manager for Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation.

‘There’s a lot of noise about outdoor air pollution, but indoor air can be more hazardous, particularly for young children and the elderly,’ says Peter Howarth, Professor of Allergy and Respiratory Medicine at the University of Southampton. ‘This “toxic home syndrome” occurs when families are exposed to a potent mix of airborne pollutants arising from poor home ventilation, causing respiratory and skin diseases,’ he explains.

The seasons can exacerbate things, too. ‘During winter, indoor air quality can deteriorate rapidly as households are frequently airtight, meaning there’s little to no natural ventilation of everyday pollutants,’ he adds. ‘Winter dampness causes condensation – the main source of mould growth.’

We’re sharing tips for minimising the risk to your health from everyday chores.

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