Cleaning for Indoor Air Quality
Ontario homes are sealed tightly for 5–6 months of cold weather, making indoor air quality particularly important. The air inside a typical Ontario home can be 2–5 times more polluted than outdoor air, primarily from dust, dust mites, pet dander, VOCs from furnishings and cleaning products, and combustion particles from cooking. Cleaning directly addresses several of these sources.
What Cleaning Addresses
Dust and dust mites: Dust mites live in carpets, bedding, and upholstered furniture. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum prevents accumulation. Washing bedding in hot water (60°C) kills dust mites. Hard floors instead of carpet significantly reduce dust mite habitat.
Pet dander: Dander is microscopic skin flakes that become airborne and are the primary allergen source from pets. Regular vacuuming, HEPA air filtration, and frequent washing of pet bedding are the most effective measures. Bathing pets regularly reduces dander shedding.
Mould spores: Bathroom mould is the primary indoor mould source in most Ontario homes. Cleaning and eliminating the mould source directly reduces spore counts.
What Cleaning Products Contribute to Poor Air Quality
Many conventional cleaning products — particularly spray cleaners, aerosol disinfectants, and air fresheners — release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that contribute to indoor air pollution. The irony is that heavily scented cleaning products can actively worsen air quality while making a home smell "clean." Fragrance-free and low-VOC cleaning products (vinegar, baking soda, unscented dish soap) are better for air quality.
Ventilate During Cleaning
Open windows when cleaning, even in Ontario's shoulder seasons. The ventilation benefit outweighs the temperature cost for the duration of a clean.