Air Pollution in the UK: Is Your Home Safe?

Every week, air pollution contributes to the deaths of over 500 people in the UK. It’s a staggering figure – yet many of us don’t realise just how much of it comes from inside our own homes. While headlines focus on traffic fumes and industrial smog, the truth is that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air.

We explore how air pollution in the UK affects your home environment, your health, and what you can do to protect yourself and your family. Plus, we’ll introduce a smart solution from Luno Hygiene to help you breathe easier.

What Is Air Pollution and Why Should You Care?

Air pollution is made up of harmful particles and gases in the air that can affect your lungs, heart, and brain. In the UK, much of this comes from traffic, industrial and commercial activities. But indoors, sources include:
Formaldehyde, which includes - Cleaning agents, building and furnishing materials, Air fresheners, Disinfectants and antiseptics, Cosmetics and personal care items, scented candles
Mould, dust including PM2.5, and pet dander
Carbon monoxide from heating appliances, stoves, and fire places
With the average person spending around 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality (IAQ) plays a critical role in your overall health and well-being.

The Hidden Dangers Inside Your Home

PM2.5 and VOCs: The Invisible Threats

Tiny particles called PM2.5 (that’s about 30 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair) are some of the most dangerous air pollutants. They’re small enough to enter your lungs and bloodstream, and have been linked to everything from asthma to dementia.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are emitted from paints, varnishes, cleaning products and furniture, can cause nausea, headaches, and irritation – especially in enclosed spaces.

Common Culprits in UK Homes

You might be surprised where pollutants are hiding:

Gas hobs can release nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide
New furniture often “off-gasses” chemicals into the air
Candles and incense add to particulate pollution
Closed windows trap pollutants inside, especially in winter

These problems are often worse in modern, well-insulated homes where ventilation is limited.

How Air Pollution Affects Your Health

Physical Health Impacts

Short-term effects include eye irritation, headaches, and coughing. Over time, exposure to indoor pollutants can worsen or trigger:

Asthma and allergies
Heart disease
Respiratory conditions
Chronic fatigue

Children, older adults, and people with existing health issues are particularly vulnerable.

Mental Clarity and Cognitive Function

What’s often overlooked is the link between air quality and brain performance. According to a Harvard study, poor indoor air can lead to a 50% drop in cognitive performance. That means reduced focus, slower decision-making, and impaired memory – especially concerning for people working or studying from home.

What Can You Do?

Start with Simple Steps

Switch to non-toxic cleaning products
Keep surfaces dust-free and vacuum using a HEPA filter
Avoid burning candles with no ventilation in place
Choose low-VOC paints and materials

But even with lifestyle changes, many indoor air pollutants remain difficult to control – which is where smart air purification comes in.

Why Choose Luno AirCare for Your Home?

At Luno Hygiene, we’ve developed medical-grade air purifiers designed for real-world living. Our AirCare and AirCare Mini devices use a 4-stage filtration system, including a HEPA 14 filter that removes:

99.995% of particles like PM2.5
VOCs and household chemicals
Mould spores, pollen and allergens
Pet dander and textile fibres

With real-time air quality monitoring and whisper-quiet performance, our devices work around the clock to give you peace of mind – whether you’re working from home, raising a young family, or simply trying to breathe better.

Supporting Evidence

Final Thoughts: Breathe Better, Live Smarter

Air pollution in the UK isn’t just an outdoor problem – it’s inside our homes, schools, and offices too. But the good news is, we have the tools to take action. Clean air shouldn’t be a luxury – it should be part of a healthy, supportive homes, work places and general open indoor spaces.

If you’re ready to take control of your indoor air, explore the Luno Hygiene range and make your space safer and healthier today.