Hi friend,
We hope this week is meeting you with some gentleness.
Some of us might worry about outdoor air pollution — smog, exhaust, wildfires. Most of us spend the bulk of our time indoors. And indoor air is easy to overlook — especially when candles, sprays, cleaners, and sealed rooms all add something to what we breathe.
Here are 4 sources of indoor pollution, and what you can do about them.
1. Your candles
The problem: Paraffin candles release benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde when burned. The same toxins in car exhaust.
What to do: Switch to 100% natural wax candles. Start with Chiije candles — Signature, Petite, or Essence on each scent — or the Discovery Set.
2. Your furniture
The problem: New furniture often off-gases VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from glues, varnishes, and flame retardants.
What to do: Air out new furniture outside or in a well-ventilated room for a few days before bringing it into your main living space. Choose solid wood over particle board when possible.
3. Your cleaning products
The problem: Conventional cleaners release chemicals that linger in the air long after you've wiped the counter.
What to do: Open windows while cleaning. Better yet, switch to natural cleaners: vinegar, baking soda, castile soap.
4. Poor ventilation
The problem: Tightly sealed homes trap pollutants inside. No fresh air exchange means concentrated toxins.
What to do: Open windows for 5–10 minutes daily, even in winter. Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Let your home breathe.
The takeaway: Your home should restore you, not poison you. Clean air starts with conscious choices.
With care, Chiije