PM2.5 refers to tiny airborne particles smaller than 2.5 microns around 30 times thinner than a human hair. Because of their size, these particles can be inhaled deep into the lungs and remain suspended in indoor air for long periods.
Common indoor sources include cooking, candles, traffic pollution entering the home and smoke.
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) are gases released from everyday household products such as cleaning sprays, paints, air fresheners, furnishings and building materials.
Unlike particles, VOCs are gases rather than solids, and can build up indoors sometimes causing headaches, irritation of the airways, fatigue or poor sleep.
Both PM2.5 and VOCs can accumulate inside homes with limited ventilation, especially in bedrooms and living spaces where people spend the most time.
Reducing exposure involves understanding the sources, improving airflow and managing what remains in the air.
