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When discussing air quality, TVOC has always been the elephant in the room. Despite the importance of the topic, it seems that no one has done a great job explaining what it is and how it's measured, so we want to take a stab at it. Put on your seatbelt, because wrapping your head around TVOC can be a bit of a mental rollercoaster!

To begin our TVOC journey, let’s start off with a simple question: What is TVOC?

Air pollution is an “invisible threat” that most people don’t consider in their day-to-day lives, yet it is an issue that affects people around the world in substantial ways. Air pollution can greatly impact the human respiratory system as well as the nervous system, brain, kidneys, liver, and other organs, and it accounts for an estimated 7 million deaths per year. Environmental effects of poor air quality may manifest in ecosystem damage, reduction of crop yield, acid rain, and exacerbation of climate change through the release of pollutants like carbon dioxide.

Many individuals and the media tend to focus on air quality only when it becomes exceptionally poor, such as during wildfires, but the benefits of improved air quality can be reaped year-round. To further explore the vast impact that air quality has on human and environmental health, particularly coupled with the impacts of a changing climate, check out our blog on the relationship between air pollution and climate change

91% of the world’s population live in cities and communities with unhealthy air. The situation in our homes can be even worse. The Environmental Protection Agency says the air quality in our homes is often more unhealthy than the air outside our window. The good news is you can take steps to improve the air quality in your home, and new research about the causes and effects of unhealthy air can help you make the best choices for your family.

It’s important to be proactive and monitor your indoor air, especially if you’re among those who are more heavily impacted by indoor air quality. Be aware of any ventilation issues and take steps to protect yourself. The reality is: you can’t solely rely only on your air purifier to protect you from air pollutants in your home.

Many home hacks will reduce airborne allergens and irritants. However, whether you’re an airborne allergy sufferer or live in a polluted city, it is worth considering products that can help double down your efforts to achieve the cleanest air possible. If you’re really serious about making sure your home is pollution-proof, consider using complementary tools in addition to humidifiers, natural household products, and air purifiers. Learn more about tech gadgets that will protect your home against air pollutants