Here are 5 simple and effective ways to improve air quality and which your lungs will be eternally grateful for.

1. TROPICAL HOUSEPLANTS TO THE RESCUE!

Results from NASA's Clean Air Study have shown that certain plants, through photosynthesis, can filter out toxins like benzene, trichloroethylene and formaldehyde from the air. Carpeting, plastics, paint and cleaning products can emit harmful pollutants I've just mentioned. These plants can also neutralize the effects of Sick Building Syndrome (a condition that causes headaches, fatigue and respiratory problems in office workers due to poor ventilation). Some tropical plants with a reputation for being more efficient air cleaners include Dracaena, Peace Lilies and the Areca Palm. They also lend natural beauty to your home! But bear in mind that NASA researchers suggest efficient air cleaning with at least one plant per 100 square feet of home or office space.

2. ELIMINATE ODOURS WITH NATURAL METHODS

Simply open a window even for just a few minutes and turn on your ceiling or portable fan to recirculate household air and get rid of stale air. You can also place a bowl of white vinegar or baking soda to absorb odour. Some air refresheners release potential carcinogens and toxic chemicals into the air and can provoke allergies so go natural. Fill an empty spray bottle with one part white vinegar and four parts water and spray that into any space to neutralize the offensive smells. Pour a scoop or two of baking soda into a small plastic container and place it behind the toilet or garbage bin. Remember to change the baking soda once a month!

3. OPT FOR NON-TOXIC HOUSEHOLD CLEANING SUPPLIES

A lot of common household cleaning products are pretty toxic to our health. Needless to say, they contain harmful chemicals that when accumulated over time can wreak havoc. Choose to use for instance, baking soda which has proven virus-killing abilities and effectively cleans, deodorizes and cuts through grease and grime. Next up, the humble Vinegar. The acidity of white distilled vinegar can also gently and miraculously eliminate grease. Also, don't underestimate the power of lemon juice! Lemons are natural germ and mold killers and the fruit's fresh scent is reason enough to ditch toxic cleaners. Your home is not a chemistry laboratory. Try DIY cleaning recipes instead!

4. INVEST IN A HEPA FILTER VACUUM

Chemicals and common allergens can accumulate in household dust of your carpets and floors. Vacuums without a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter will suck all the chemicals in, only to spew them out later through the exhaust. Yes! Dust, dirt, pet dander, mites, tobacco smoke and even small irritants can only be eliminated with a good HEPA filter. It works by trapping harmful particles in a fine mesh when air is forced through it. High traffic areas and spots where dust accumulates require more effort. Some people see allergy symptoms improve from it too. And don't be lazy! Vacuum two or more times each week.

5. CLEAN YOUR AIR FILTERS REGULARLY

A clogged filter can damage your system's efficiency instead of purifying the air. Change filters according to their type, how often the machine, for example, an air-conditioner or air purifier is used and how hard it is working. A good rule of thumb is to check your filters at least once a month so they are more energy efficient. This can ensure the longevity of your equipment and save you money on maintenance and repairs. Stop circulating dust, mites, and other particles in your room like that song looping in your head.