Buying an Air Purifier
Lately I’ve been hearing that adding an air purifier to my baby’s nursery is a good way to go. Why is this? And which purifier should I choose?
There are two reasons to purchase an air purifier. The first is simply to optimize the quality of the air in your home, and with the average house containing well over 150 toxic chemicals, indoor air pollution has become a big concern.
The second and most common factor in purchasing an air purification system is to reduce the incidence and/or occurrence of allergies. “Before you begin shopping,” says our EcoMom expert Dr. Stephenie Riley, “you have to ask yourself what it is you are trying to accomplish and also consider the size of the room. You’ll also want to make sure the appliance you choose does not emit any ozone.”
Another important consideration when comparing purifiers is to look for Energy Star-rated models. Energy Star is a program developed by the US Environmental Agency and the Department of Energy to help consumers select the most energy-efficient appliances. Here are a variety of options we like. (The prices vary, and though I don’t often believe this to be true in general, in this case, you do get what you pay for.)
Blueair – This is one of our favorites. They are registered with the Food and Drug Administration as "Medical Devices," and most are Energy Star-rated.
Hamilton Beach True Air Ionic Air Purifier - Up to 180 sq ft; Energy Star-rated, $119
Austin Air Baby’s Breath Air Purifier - Perfect for nursery (blue or pink) and economical, though not Energy Star-rated, $299
Plasma Wave - Up to 170 sq ft; Energy Star-rated; white and silver model available from Gaiam is one of my favorites, $499
IQ AIR Perfect16 Whole House Air Purifier - Must have pre-existing HVAC system, $2,695
Last but not least, there are some easy and preventive measures you can adopt to keep your indoor air quality good, such as using low or no VOC paints in your home, opting for organically grown flowers and plants, purchasing hardwood furniture, opening windows often to let in fresh air, taking cushions and blankets outside for a good shaking once a week, and using non-toxic cleaning products. These are simple first steps we can all do every day, regardless of whether you are purchasing an air purifier or not.
About The AuthorKimberly Danek Pinkson is the founder of the EcoMom Alliance and a popular media guest and keynote speaker on issues of green living and sustainability. A longtime social entrepreneur and freelance writer, she is a frequent contributor for parenting magazines and websites such as BabyCenter and iVillage. Kimberly works with her team of EcoMom Leaders to bring forth the organizationâ??s positive and proactive messaging, including teaching Sustain Your Self workshops nationwide. She is the proud mommy to son Corbin, a doting auntie to two nephews, and very happy to be a part of The Cradle. To learn more about Kimberly and join the EcoMom Alliance, please visit ecomomalliance.org.
