Using An Air Purifier For Child Safety And Health

Parents who are expecting their first child tend to stock up on books about “what to expect” during the months after their baby’s birth. These cover everything from development to creating a safe environment. However, one aspect of childproofing that isn’t really addressed is how to make the air inside the home safe for a baby to breathe. The incidence of asthma has skyrocketed in recent decades. This means installing an air purifier for child health is a crucial step in reducing the early onset of allergies.

Once a baby becomes sensitized to an allergen, the stage is set for a lifetime of health problems. Indoor pets are just one source of contamination that can trigger a histamine response. Often, it is the unseen invaders such as dust mites that pose the greatest risk. Bacteria and viruses can also negatively impact an infant’s developing immune system.

Even an innocent activity such as redecorating a room in anticipation of the new arrival may release volatile organic compounds into the air. These VOCs are toxic chemicals that are off-gassed from paint and new carpet. Cigarette smoke is another enemy of indoor air quality (IAQ). Expectant parents who are smokers may well vow to quit upon the arrival of their newborn. However, the stress of kicking a nicotine addiction on top of getting virtually no sleep for several months can cause even the strongest resolve to falter.

Air Purifier For New Parents The Answer?

An air purifier actually makes a great baby shower gift. The cost of purchasing a single room air cleaner that handles up to 400 square feet is not exorbitant. Of course, if it is a stand alone unit it will need to be one that can be kept out of reach curious fingers. A wall mounted purifier or a machine that is compact enough to sit on a bureau makes a good choice for treating one room. Alternately, a portable unit can be used in the nursery or easily moved to a play area. In addition to being healthy, the gentle “white noise” produced by a purifier can help soothe a baby to sleep.

Selecting the right type of cleaning technology is one of the most important considerations. The ease of use advertised for “no filter” ionizers may be tempting for busy new parents. However, these machines create ozone – a known lung irritant that can worsen asthma symptoms. Even units that are used as directed can allow unsafe levels of ozone to accumulate indoors.

A good pre-filter and HEPA filter along with activated carbon, UV light, and photo-catalytic oxidation covers all the bases. Large bits of dust are trapped by the pre-filter which is often cleanable and reusable. The HEPA latches onto microscopic dust particles. Activated carbon removes chemicals from the air while UV light and oxidation kill germs and mold.

While a single room unit is a good start, parents who want to make their whole home safe have more advanced options at their disposal. Entire house air purifiers can be installed in HVAC systems. This type of equipment is designed to handle the high volume and speed of airflow needed for adequate ventilation. If you are expecting a child or you want to find the perfect gift for a new parent, request a copy of our free ebook. It will provide the advice you need to make just the right selection.

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