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About Cottage Grove sentinel. (Cottage Grove, Or.) 1909-current | View Entire Issue (March 30, 2016)
2016 Spring Home & Garden 4 Three ways to improve indoor air quality all year A s winter wears on, it’s not uncommon for people living in cold weather climates to expe- rience some cabin fever. Winter weather confi nes many people to their homes, making many antsy to get out once the fi rst signs of spring begin to appear. In addition to contributing to cabin fever, winter weather can have a negative impact on indoor air quality. While air pollution is something most often associated with densely populated cities, the air inside homes is not immune to pollution, especially during long winters when windows are often closed for months at a time. Though open windows in spring and summer can vastly improve indoor air quality, there are ways to ensure that air stays fresh and healthy regardless of which season it happens to be. 1. Clean the fl oors. Dirty fl oors are one of the chief contributors to poor indoor air quality. Dust, dirt, pollen, and pet dander can accumulate on fl oors, leading to poor air quality and potentially aggravating respiratory conditions such as asthma. When vacuuming, use a vacuum with a HEPA fi lter, which is a uniquely designed mechanical air fi lter that traps harmful particles such as pollen, pet dander and dust mites. When you fi nish vacuuming, mop fl oors to gather any dust or aller- gens that escaped the vacuum. 2. Control indoor air moisture. Moist air is great for dust mites and mold, both of which are very bad for humans, so do everything you can to maintain healthy levels of indoor air moisture. Dehumidi- fi ers can reduce indoor air mois- ture and control allergens, but it’s important to take additional steps as well. When bathing, try to keep a bathroom window open on a slight crack to prevent mold growth. When preparing meals in the kitchen, make use of your exhaust fan. In addition, don’t overwater houseplants, as they can become breeding grounds for mold. 3. Resist synthetic fragrances. A home that smells good tends to feel more pleasant, especially during winter months when win- dows are closed. But synthetic fragrances, such as those found in detergents and air fresheners, may be providing that welcoming scent at a heavy cost to a home’s inhabitants. Such fragrances may be emitting various chemicals, including volatile organic com- pounds, or VOCs, into the air, affecting indoor air quality and possibly even human health. When buying laundry products, look for those that are fragrance-free, also choosing home cleaning products that do not include any artifi cial fragrances. Indoor air quality tends to suffer in colder months, when windows are closed and doors are open only briefl y. But homeowners can take a handful of simple yet effective steps to ensure the air in their homes is healthy all year long. Homestead Furniture: Quality furniture at affordable prices Homestead Furniture is a fam- ily-owned business that has been in the same location in Cottage Grove for over 45 years. The restored historical building’s two fl oors are fi lled with furniture for every room of your home with a vast variety of colors, fabrics, styles and woods to fi t any taste. They carry many name brands of furniture. Mako is a newer product that they offer. Solid wood furniture in alder or pine with 18 colors to choose from and also custom colors are an option. Other well know brands that they stock are Corsicana, Spring Air, Ashley Bench Craft, Coaster and Porter to name a few. If you don’t see what you are looking for, don’t hesitate to ask Rob, he can prob- ably get for you. In addition to their inventory of fi ne furniture, Homestead has a complete fl oor-covering depart- ment with whatever you are look- ing for, vinyl laminates, tile, and carpet. Expert installation with free estimates is also a plus. Hea- tizon systems are also available. Financing is available through Synchrony Financial, along with accepting Visa, MasterCard, and Discover cards. OPEN Thur., Fri., Sat. 10am-4pm ReStore We have Volunteer Opportunities Habitat Offi ce and Warehouse 2155 Getty Circle ~ Unit #1 in the Cottage Grove Industrial Park South on Hwy 99 past the High School Call 541.767.0358 for more information Email: info@habitatcg.org
