Aromas are subtle. Even without our awareness they will trigger memories and evoke strong emotions. An entryway that passes through a utility room is likely to contain paints and other products that emit toxic vapors. A garage is certain to contain a high level of combustion byproducts. Any entrance can assault the sense if the home includes synthetic wall-to-wall carpeting, composition wood furnishings, and other products with chemical additives. 

The heavy fragrances of commercial air fresheners only compound the problem because they are made with chemicals that can cause fatigue, depression, and other ailments. Use furnishings and finishings made of all natural materials instead. An air purification system will help remove toxins, and some scientists believe that common houseplants such as bamboo palm or chrysanthemum also cleanse impurities from the air. 

To freshen a room naturally, bring in vases of flowering lavender or small sachets of cedar chips. Or, fill small bowls with an essential (pure) oil from aromatic plants such as sandalwood or sage.  

For Air Purity

Installed on your furnace, in your ductwork, or freestanding, an air filter will help cleanse pollutants from your home. Some filters remove particles; others help remove gasses. For the greatest degree of air purity, you will need to install both types of filters, or use a filter that incorporates more than one system. 

Particulate Filter 

Your furnace probably already has a fiberglass or polyester filter that removes larger particles from the air. It is inexpensive and easy to maintain, but it does not remove smaller particles or gasses. 

Medium Efficiency Extended Air Filter 

A pleated filter with a larger surface area catches more particles than a standard furnace filter. Medium efficiency filters trap nearly half of all particle matter but cannot filter out gasses. 

High Efficiency Extended Air Filter 

Known as HEPA filters, these powerful air purifiers are often used in hospitals. Cigarette smoke and nearly all particles are removed from the air. Because a large motor is required, a full-scale HEPA filtration system is seldom used in private homes. 

Electrostatic Particulate Filter 

The friction of air moving through the filter creates static electricity, and larger particles are trapped. Although it will not trap smaller particles, an electrostatic filter is very helpful for removing pollen and mold spores.  

Electrostatic Precipitator (Ionizer) 

Mounted into your ductwork, an ionizer turns dust into magnets and then draws it to metal collector plates. Large proportions of particles are trapped, but the filter needs frequent cleaning. 

Turbulent Flow Precipitator 

Particles are caught in a whirlwind of moving air and then dropped into a containment space. TFP filters are efficient for removing particles; they do not filter gasses. 

Activated Carbon Filter 

Carbon granules absorb heavier gasses. Lighter gasses such as formaldehyde are not affected. The filter must be changed often, or pollutants will be released back into the air. 

Activated Alumina Filter 

Even lighter gasses like formaldehyde are absorbed and destroyed by the activated alumina material. Many manufactures offer combined alumina and carbon filters. 

Room Filters 

Small, freestanding filters let you cleanse the air without installing a major air filtration system. These portable devices operate a variety of ways, including activated carbon, activated alumina, and HEPA filtration. The lager the air filter, the more effective it will be.