Indoor air quality risks from household paints and scented products

Indoor air quality is significantly impacted by common household activities, including painting and the use of scented products. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released during these processes, potentially degrading air quality and posing risks to respiratory health, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and asthmatics.

When painting, choosing low-VOC products is essential. Consumers are advised to look for the A+ emission label, which indicates very low emissions, and to prioritize water-based acrylic paints. Proper ventilation before, during, and after application is a critical step in maintaining a healthy environment.

Similarly, the combustion of scented candles, incense, and other aromatic products can release toxic substances like formaldehyde. Despite many users believing these products improve air quality, they often increase pollutant concentrations. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to ventilate rooms immediately after extinguishing flames to prevent the accumulation of microparticles and invisible fumes.