Tips to clear the air  and find your way to better health Animal dander, dust mites, mould, pollen—it’s all right there in the air, not to mention your bath towels, bedding, and furniture. These particles can exacerbate respiratory symptoms, bronchitis, and asthma for people with such conditions. It’s no wonder that of respondents to a 2016 survey by Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies who reported having healthy-home concerns; almost 70 percent cited indoor air quality as their top worry. There’s no silver-bullet solution, but these do-it-yourself measures will go a long way toward easier breathing. Control Moisture Use an air conditioner (with a clean filter) or a dehumidifier to help keep things dry in the basement and other damp spaces, where mites and mold tend to thrive. Air It Out Open windows when weather permits and turn on exhaust fans at other times to remove indoor pollutants. You can also use portable or whole-house air purifiers that have a clean-air deliver...

Contact Inspect it All if you want your home inspected or tested for lead paint.  Since 1978, lead-based paint has been banned in the United States, so there is practically no risk in newer homes, except from older painted furniture. Homes built between 1950 and 1978 are likely to have lead-based paint, while ones built before 1950 almost certainly have lead-based paint.  Lead was used in all kinds of paint, so any older, painted surface is suspect. Cracked or peeling paint poses the most obvious threat.  There is also risk when an older painted surface is sanded, scraped or sawed as part of a painting, repair or improvement project. In addition, windows can be problems because friction in the sashes slowly grinds up layers of old paint–some of which may contain lead. The resulting contamination can be easily inhaled or ingested. Lead tends to build up in the body causing a wide variety of mental and physical health problems. The risk is greatest for ch...