What Air Quality is Safe for Babies?
It is no secret that our atmosphere is constantly changing and that it is not as pure as it once was. Babies are a particularly vulnerable population and require the highest level of air quality for their safety and well-being. So, what air quality is safe for babies?
Indoors
Babies typically spend the majority of their time indoors and require air that is free from pollutants like VOCs, Volatile Organic Compounds. VOCs are pollutants that are released from many everyday items like paint, cleaning products, and furniture. To ensure that your baby is safe, it is important to:
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- Ventilate the Home Frequently – open windows and doors to allow fresh air to enter the home, especially when cooking or cleaning
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- Minimize the Number of Products with VOCs – avoid purchasing paint, furniture, and cleaning items that contain VOCs
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- Invest in an Indoor Air Purifier – purchase a purifier that is specifically designed to remove VOCs from the air
Outdoors
When the air quality index (AQI) is higher than 50, it is important that you limit your baby’s amount of time outdoors. High ozone levels, smog, and other pollutants can irritate babies’ respiratory systems and increase their risk of developing asthma and other health issues. Here are some tips for keeping your baby safe when the AQI is high:
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- Avoid Taking Walks Outside – instead, find indoor activities for your baby
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- Prevent Tire and Exhaust Fumes from Entering the Home – make sure all windows and doors are closed whenever you are leaving or entering the home
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- Wear a Dust Mask – if you must take your baby outside, make sure to wear a dust mask to protect them from inhaling any pollution
Overall, it is important to provide your baby with the cleanest air possible. Clean air is key to ensuring their health and safety and helping them to develop and grow. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that your baby is breathing safe and healthy air.