Let the air in – campaign for a good indoor climate

Most people are aware that chemical substances can affect their health.

However, very few people realise that these substances can originate from products such as electronic equipment, furniture, carpets, detergents and toys. You cannot see the chemicals, but they are released from products and accumulate in dust and in the air. They can then affect you and your health.

The five indoor climate habits

1. Let the air in
   - make sure you create effective ventilation for 2x5 minutes every day.
   Indoor air can actually be more polluted than outdoor air. You should therefore make sure that the air is changed frequently. You need several open windows to do this. Having a window slightly open will not have the same effect.
2. Clean frequently
   - remove dust once a week and arrange your home so that it is easy to clean.
   Some chemicals accumulate in dust. You should therefore remove dust frequently. You can help yourself by, for example, storing things in lidded boxes, which can easily be dusted.
3. Don't sleep in a room with electronic equipment switched on
   - think about where you place electronic equipment and switch it off after use.
   When electronic equipment gets hot, various chemicals are released into the indoor air. This can cause problems with the indoor climate, particularly in small rooms where you sleep or spend a lot of time.
4. Use products correctly
   - always follow instructions on use and dosage and avoid using spray products indoors.
   Some of the highest and most harmful concentrations of chemicals in the indoor climate occur when we use products incorrectly. It is therefore a good idea to spray your new shoes or sofa outdoors.
5. Follow your nose when buying new products
   - do not bring products that smell of chemicals into the home.
   Your nose can be a good guide, particularly when purchasing electronic equipment, clothes and toys. If a product smells, it is probably because chemicals are being released into the indoor climate. This is not necessarily a problem, but it might be. Note that you cannot smell all substances. You should always make sure you ventilate your home when you unpack new purchases at home.

Motivation of the campaign
There are many products in Danish homes that can release chemicals in small quantities. Chemicals accumulate in dust and air, causing a poor indoor climate. Headaches, fatigue and dry mucous membranes can be signs of a poor indoor climate.

You cannot avoid having chemicals in your indoor climate altogether, but with some simple steps you can reduce your exposure to them.