Take a breather: Three ways to clean air without a purifier

As scary as it sounds, your house can make you sick, too. 

Most people do not know that the air inside our own homes may be as polluted as the air outdoors. Common items such as paint, upholstery, carpets, and cleaning products all contribute to air pollutants that may cause us harm in the long run. Air purifiers, however useful in keeping the air clean, are actually not the most natural way of solving this indoor air-pollution dilemma. Here are three alternative ways to reduce toxins at home:

• House plants. There is nothing more natural than items from nature itself — plants! Indoor potted plants are the most natural air purifiers you can get. The spider plant, aloe vera, and snake plants are some of the most common air-purifying plants that are great indoors. These three types are also easy to care for and are best for people-on-the-go. It’s not too late to hop on that plantito/plantita bandwagon!   

• Beeswax candles. Unlike petroleum-derived home candles that may produce soot into the air, beeswax candles burn with almost no smoke or scent. These candles ionise air and neutralise toxic compounds and other pollutants. These candles also burn slowly and take time before they need to be replaced. With these, you also create a romantic atmosphere while naturally purifying the air. 

• Activated charcoal. Active carbon air filters not only absorb toxins in the air but also remove some foul odors by absorbing the harmful particles from the air. Activated charcoal briquettes can be placed anywhere inside your home and has been proven to be safe as long as you use the right amount.

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