What Makes Air Stuffy and Stale and How To Prevent It

Bad smells in a home are easily one of the most frustrating occurrences. Of course, we all want to come back to a refreshing and tranquil environment. But it’s hard to properly relax and recharge after a hard day’s work when the house is far from comfortable. Fortunately, what makes air stuffy and stale and how to prevent it is not as tough as it seems!

The Source of Stale Air

It’s usually a month or two into the hottest part of summer when we start asking what makes air stuffy and stale and how to prevent it. The most straightforward answer to what causes it is simply a lack of airflow. It’s usually when a house is all buttoned up to weather the year’s high heat and deep freeze. Simply put, there’s not much opportunity for fresh air to get in. After a while, the air we breathe becomes full of bacteria and carbon dioxide from being lived in.

Tackle Causes of Bad Smells

If stale air persists, the bacteria in the air may have found a place to roost in your home. Mold is a common contributor to stagnation and lingering dampness. Finding and dealing with areas in your home that don’t see much light or that frequently interact with water is essential. Closets especially require special attention as harbors of smells, along with laundry rooms and bathrooms.

Get Air Moving in the House

The best way to tackle stale air quickly is to get air moving. If possible, start by throwing open the windows to encourage the fresh outdoor air in. Otherwise, setting up a battery of fans to gust air about the house will help cut back humidity and make it easier to breathe. Alternatively, a dehumidifier will put a stop to very humid conditions. Finally, keeping plants and aquariums is a great and natural way to manage the stale effects caused by carbon dioxide.