As the new year rolls in, many of us are thinking about improving our health and wellness. But one thing that often flies under the radar is the air we breathe—especially in our own homes. It's easy to forget that the quality of the air indoors can have a big impact on how we feel day to day. That’s why making indoor air quality New Year’s resolutions for 2025 is one of the best ways to ensure your upcoming year is healthier than ever.

If you're ready to take control of your environment and breathe a little easier in 2025, there are simple steps you can take right now. From testing the dust in your home to ditching chemical cleaners, making a few changes can have a huge effect on your overall well-being. 

Let's explore eight ways to make your air cleaner and home healthier.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #1. Learn What’s in Your Dust

Gravity brings particles like mold spores, mycotoxins, and endotoxins down to horizontal surfaces like floors, doorframes, and furniture. So, where dust collects, these indoor contaminants collect, too. 

Testing this dust will help to determine exactly what’s hanging out in your home and potentially causing problems. Highly contaminated dust is not only a health hazard, as all of those particles can enter the body when they’re kicked up into the air when the dust is disturbed, but it also indicates an underlying contamination problem somewhere in the home. 

The Dust Test is the first stop on your journey to help improve indoor air quality in your home. It will help you know if there’s a problem before spending thousands of dollars trying to find one (both medically and in your home). And, if there is a problem, The Dust Test will indicate what you’re being exposed to before your inspector comes so that you can ensure they will find where it’s coming from.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #2. Toss Out Chemical Cleaners

Many cleaners on the market today use harmful chemicals that lower your indoor air quality and cause unwanted exposures. Bleach is a common and easy example to look at. 

Sodium hypochlorite is the main component that gives bleach its cleaning oomph, but it also makes this product unhealthy for your home. 

Many bleach-containing products have chlorine-containing compounds, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and chlorine gas (Cl2). These fumes can negatively affect indoor air quality, irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, and cause coughing, headaches, and watery eyes. Additionally, when mixed with other household cleaning products, bleach can create toxic chlorine gas, which can be harmful if inhaled.

Taken as a whole, this reduced indoor air quality and exposure aren’t healthy for you, your family, or your pets.

Another consideration is the environment. When chlorine is released into the outdoor environment, it can form dioxins, known carcinogens that harm aquatic life and wildlife. The major culprits for this form of contamination are the manufacturing of bleach itself and the large-scale use of the product.

Bleach is just one example! Glass cleaners can contain ammonia and often leave residues on surfaces that can come into contact with skin or be ingested by children and pets. All-purpose cleaners can contain 2-butoxyethanol, sodium lauryl sulfate, or harsh detergents. The list goes on, and it’s an incredibly harmful inventory not only to you and your loved ones but also to the environment.

That’s why tossing out chemical cleaners is a great addition to your indoor air quality New Year’s Resolutions for 2025.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #3 Use Botanical Cleaning Products

So, what should you use instead of cleaning products packed with chemicals and contaminants like VOCs and PFAS? 

Botanical products are a great route to go.

Instead of harmful components, botanical products use ingredients like essential oils to effectively clean and remove particles that can cause adverse health reactions, like bacteria. These non-toxic ingredients do not decrease indoor air quality with harmful chemicals and reduce the risk of exposure-related reactions. 

One of my go-to products to recommend is Benefect Decon 30. This product uses a botanical active ingredient called Thymol, a Thyme Oil component, to neutralize surface contaminants. It also has a unique Optimized Dynamic Chemistry (ODC) surfactant system, which helps remove particles from the surface so that they don’t continue to build up. 

I also recommend EC3 Laundry Additive. Add this to every load of laundry to help remove particles from the fibers of your clothing. As a bonus, it also helps keep your washing machine clean and healthy! 

Take a look at the labels on your product for phrases like "plant-based," "bio-based," or "botanical extract,”

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #4. Invest In Clean Air

One of the best ways to improve indoor air quality in your home is to invest in technology that actively filters out contaminants. 

It’s impossible to completely prevent particles from entering your home. Cleaning is a great way to remove them, but air purifiers also help eliminate the rest of these particles. The fewer particles there are, the healthier the indoor air quality will be.

Not all air purifiers are built the same, though. You want to go with a unit that removes the maximum number of contaminants possible and does it all the time, not just some of the time. That way, they don’t recirculate back into the environment and potentially make their way into the bodies of those spending time inside. 

Air purifiers should at least meet HEPA status, meaning they remove 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. If it can remove smaller particles, that’s even better. Some can also work to reduce other contaminants such as formaldehyde, VOCs, bacteria, viruses, and biotoxins. Also, pay attention to the space recommendations on the particular unit to ensure it’s equipped to filter the air for the size of the home.

Opting for a whole-home air purification system that can eliminate the smallest contaminants possible is the best option for improving indoor air quality. Some purification systems go beyond HEPA status, removing even more contaminants from the air and creating a safer indoor environment. 

I prefer Intellipure products as they eliminate up to 99.99% of particles as minuscule as 0.007 microns.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #5. Focus On Transitioning to Cleanable Surfaces

The cleaner your home is, the healthier it is for you and your family. It will lower the number of viruses and bacteria in the home and reduce the number of mold spores, mycotoxins, dust mite matter, VOCs, pesticides, and more that slowly make their way inside. All this stuff can enter your body through inhalation, so it’s important to keep these levels low. 

And listen, zero is not attainable, and that’s okay! Maintaining a home that is hospital-grade clean is impossible and also not sustainable. We simply want to keep levels low so that your body doesn’t become overwhelmed trying to eliminate a massive influx of harmful matter every time you take a breath at home. 

With that in mind, clean regularly using the correct products, and take steps to make it easier for you to clean. Here are a few simple suggestions to get you on the right path.

Declutter 

Over time, our homes seem to take on a life of their own, collecting everything from old clothes to decorative knickknacks—kind of like a squirrel stashing acorns for winter. What starts as a few cherished items can grow into a chaotic mix of “stuff” that’s hard to manage or even remember why we kept it in the first place.

A less cluttered home isn’t just good for your peace of mind—it’s better for your health, too. With fewer items around, there are fewer surfaces for dust to settle, making it much easier to keep your home clean and your air fresh.

Take, for instance, that cluttered bookshelf filled with everything from paperbacks and photo frames to little figurines from your last vacation. When it’s time to dust, you might just swipe the front edge and call it good—after all, who has time to move it all? But while it’s “out of sight,” it’s definitely not out of mind. That dust doesn’t just sit there; it becomes part of the air you breathe and can impact your indoor air quality.

By taking the time to reevaluate our belongings each year, we can reclaim our space and reduce the dust magnets in our homes. For example, if half the items on that bookshelf aren’t bringing you joy anymore, why not donate or repurpose them? You’ll free up space, improve air quality, and make cleaning a breeze.

A home with less clutter means fewer worries and more room to enjoy what truly matters—literally and figuratively.

Avoid Porous Material

When designing or updating your living space, the materials you choose can make a big difference in how clean and healthy your home stays. 

Non-porous materials, like glass, metal, and certain types of sealed wood or stone, are a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain a tidy and sanitary environment. Not only are these materials easier to clean, but they also offer a bonus: they don’t hold onto moisture, which can help prevent hidden mold or bacterial growth.

Why Non-Porous is Better for Cleaning

Non-porous surfaces have a smooth, sealed structure that makes them resistant to absorbing dirt, grime, or liquids. This means that:

• Dust and Debris Wipe Away Easily: Unlike porous materials like unsealed wood or fabric, which can trap particles in tiny crevices, non-porous surfaces require just a quick swipe with a cloth to remove dust and spills.
• Hygiene Matters: These surfaces don’t harbor bacteria or allergens as readily, making them a healthier option for kitchens, bathrooms, and other high-use areas.

As a bonus, non-porous materials are less likely to stain, even when spills involve colorful or acidic substances like coffee or juice.

Moisture-Resistance: The Mold-Prevention Bonus

Porous materials can act like sponges, absorbing water from spills, high humidity, or leaks. This retained moisture creates an ideal breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can negatively affect indoor air quality and pose health risks. Conversely, nonporous materials don’t absorb water, reducing the chance of microbial growth.

Examples of Non-Porous Materials to Incorporate

• Countertops: Opt for quartz, granite, or stainless steel instead of porous materials like unsealed marble or laminate.
• Flooring: Choose tile, sealed concrete, or vinyl instead of carpet or untreated hardwood.
• Bathroom Fixtures: Use non-porous materials like porcelain or fiberglass for tubs and sinks.

While non-porous materials might have a slightly higher upfront cost, they save time and money in the long run. They’re more durable, easier to clean, and less prone to issues like staining or moisture-related damage. 

So, whenever the budget allows, prioritize non-porous materials to promote a healthier environment for you and your family. This indoor air quality New Year’s Resolution for 2025 may require some planning but is absolutely worth the work.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #6. Prevent Mold and Bacteria With Moisture Reduction

Mold can grow in as little as 24-48 hours if the surface has a source of moisture and food. Once established, it will release all sorts of particles into your environment, lowering the indoor air quality and causing unwanted exposures. 

To eliminate this opportunity, work to avoid moisture as much as possible.

This can include:

• Cleaning up spills and pooled water ASAP
• Hanging up wet items to dry, such as the bathmat and towels
• Avoiding leaving wet clothes in the laundry 
• Separating the shower curtain and liner so that they can dry after use
• Allowing appliances to dry out after use (ex: leaving the dishwasher door open after unloading)
• Squeegee the shower after use
• Regularly check for structural issues in the shower, such as misaligned tiles and aging grout, and resolve any issues immediately so that they don’t trap moisture
• Fixing leaks
• Maintaining an indoor humidity level of 35 to 50% because some species of mold can grow in humidity of 60% and higher

Also, investing in items to help prevent water damage is another great idea. Items like Xtreme Undersink Mats can help buy you time to discover a hidden leak before it sinks into your cabinets and flooring. Tools like the Airmada Shower Dryer can help quickly and thoroughly dry your shower, reducing the risk of microbial contamination. 

Alert systems are also a great idea! Leak detection devices can help alert you to a problem so that you can jump into fixing it as soon as possible. Hygrometers are a phenomenal tool and will ensure indoor humidity isn’t in the danger zone. The faster a moisture situation is resolved, the lower the chance of mold or bacteria popping up.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #7. Prioritize Your HVAC

Your HVAC system acts as your home’s lungs, circulating air throughout your space. Regular maintenance is a must to keep it healthy, especially during seasonal changes when condensation can build up, creating a breeding ground for mold. Hidden mold in the system can blow contaminated particles through your home, lowering indoor air quality and increasing health risks.

Schedule professional HVAC servicing in spring and fall to clean coils, check for microbial growth, and ensure everything runs efficiently. Think of it as a biannual tune-up that keeps your home and family healthy.

Don’t forget the filters either—they’re your first defense. Dirty filters not only allow contaminants to circulate back into the environment but also strain the system, leading to higher energy bills and potential repairs. Check filters regularly and replace them on time. Also, consider upgrading to the highest-rated MERV filters the unit can handle to capture smaller particles like mold spores.

A well-maintained HVAC system means cleaner air and a healthier home—perfect for your 2024 wellness goals.

Top Indoor Air Quality New Year's Resolutions for 2025 #8. Stop Bringing In Outside Contaminants

With the building industry pushing for net zero energy efficiency, there’s very little airflow between indoor and outdoor environments. That means the majority of particles and contaminants that make their way inside will remain inside until they’re actively removed. 

Again, cleaning and air purification are great ways to lower these leaves. Another method is to stop them from entering in the first place! This indoor air quality New Year’s resolution for 2025 is an easy but effective way to protect ourselves and our indoor air quality.

Leave Shoes at the Door

Between walking through the park, strolling down city streets on the way to work, or grabbing dinner at your local grocery store, your shoes are in contact with various surfaces. They’re also in contact with whatever else is on those surfaces. 

Your shoes pick up whatever is on the ground and bring it along for the ride. From Salmonella and Listeria to pesticides, lead, PFAS, mold, bacteria, and more, shoes can harbor a long list of potential nasties.

Then you walk into your home on those contaminated soles. This happens every day, meaning more and more contaminants are brought inside.

It’s absolutely in our best interests to leave our potentially particle-ridden footwear at the door. This is an easy and effective way to promote a healthier indoor environment by reducing the opportunity to introduce unwanted bacteria, chemicals, and other contaminants. 

Stop Using Candles and Air Fresheners

There are millions of different fragrance options and methods for making our homes smell however we want. From spring flowers and fresh linens to apple pie and orange blossoms, there’s a smelly-good option for everyone.

While we all want our homes to smell fresh and clean, we also want to ensure that our air quality promotes wellness. Unfortunately, many fragrance products, such as candles and air fresheners, can add harmful chemicals and VOCs to our air, lowering indoor air quality and exposing us to unwanted hazards.

The impact on indoor air quality is minimal compared to other sources, but every contribution adds up. With modern building practices pushing for net-zero energy efficiency, there’s minimal airflow between our indoor and outdoor environments. This means we should do as much as we can to promote healthier indoor air quality and reduce contaminant-adding activities as much as possible. 

Opting for more natural ways to add scents to our homes is a great alternative to candles! One option is to boil spices, herbs, and fruit on the stovetop. Just make sure the indoor humidity doesn’t rise above 50%. 

Remember, though, that a clean and healthy house shouldn’t have a smell!

Opt for Low or VOC-Free and PFAS Options

Opting for low or VOC-free and PFAS-free products is a fantastic way to promote better indoor air quality and create a healthier space for you and your loved ones.

VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are harmful chemicals that can easily become airborne, negatively impacting our health. VOCs are released from common household items like paints, cleaning products, and furniture, and long-term exposure can lead to headaches, respiratory issues, and even cancer. PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are found in products like non-stick cookware, stain-resistant furniture, and waterproof clothing. These chemicals persist in the environment and can contribute to serious health issues, including kidney and liver damage, hormone disruption, and increased cancer risks.

This year, make a commitment to choose products that are free from these harmful substances. You can check product labels to determine if the item contains certain harmful chemicals or look for certain certifications. Products with GREENGUARD Certifications, for example, signify products tested and found to have low chemical emissions.

By reducing VOCs and PFAS in your home, you'll be taking a meaningful step toward creating a space that supports your health and well-being. This simple change can lead to cleaner air, better sleep, and less stress—helping you start the year on a healthier note!

Bonus New Year's Resolutions for 2025:

When you breathe cleaner air over the upcoming year, make sure you’re doing it in a way that supports your mental health as well. One way to check this off your indoor air quality New Year’s Resolutions for 2025 is to invest in something like the Komuso Breathing Necklace. 

The Komsuo Shift Breathing Necklace is a simple, effective tool designed to help you breathe mindfully and improve your overall wellness.

Breathing is something we do automatically, but most of us don’t think about how we breathe. The Shift Necklace helps slow down your exhale, encouraging deep, controlled breaths that activate the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress and promoting calm.

For instance, if you're feeling overwhelmed while reading the news at home, taking a few minutes with the Shift necklace can help center you, easing tension and improving focus.

The Benefits of Breathing Better

• Reduces Anxiety and Stress: Slows the "fight or flight" response.
• Improves Heart Health: Helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
• Boosts Focus: Clears the mind and calms the nervous system.
• Relieves Tension: Eases headaches and promotes relaxation.

The Shift is simple to use: just inhale through your nose and exhale slowly through the necklace. Incorporating this into your daily routine can make a big difference in how you feel—calm, focused, and more in control.

After working on creating a home with healthy indoor air quality, why not take the next step and ensure you're breathing well, too?!

Breathe Easier in 2025

As we welcome the new year, it's the perfect time to take charge of our health and well-being, starting with the air we breathe indoors. By committing to improving indoor air quality, we can create a healthier environment that supports not only our physical health but also our mental clarity and emotional well-being.

Every small change counts, whether ditching harmful chemical cleaners, investing in air purification technology, or simply decluttering our living spaces. These resolutions are not just about making our homes cleaner; they’re about fostering a sanctuary where we can thrive.

As you embark on these indoor air quality New Year’s resolutions for 2025, remember that your efforts promote better overall health. By prioritizing indoor air quality, you are not just committing to a healthier year; you are cultivating a lifestyle that supports you and your loved ones for years to come. Here’s to a cleaner, healthier, and more mindful year ahead!