Natural Ways to Remove Chemical Fumes in the Home

Open Windows

• When faced with chemical fumes, immediately air out your home to begin reclaiming control. Open all doors and windows to create as much natural air flow as possible. This will help to draw the fumes outside and allow fresh, healthy air in. The increased air flow may also help with moisture-based problems, such as mildew and mold.

Fans

• Fans accelerate the flow of air, helping to eliminate fumes. If you wish to use fans to remove fumes from the home, you must also open doors or windows. If you run fans in a closed house, you will only spread the fumes around. For best results, place exhaust fans directly in windows, as exhaust fans draw air to the outside.

Ventilation

• While this may not help you in an emergency, you can protect yourself from future chemical-based mishaps by installing the right ventilation in your home. Attic exhaust vents, in particular, can help to release fumes naturally. Ridge vents, also installed on roofing, can help as well. If you have a hobby or occupation that involves constant exposure to chemicals, consider installing a fume hood in the area of the home or building where you handle chemicals. A fume hood is a ventilation device commonly used in laboratories to remove chemical fumes.

Air Purifiers

• An air purifier is not the most natural solution, since it uses complex processes to draw in and sterilize chemical fumes, but in an emergency, it can help. Keep a portable air purifier around for emergency situations. Even if you do not use it as your main course of action, it can supplement other fume-removal efforts for a more effective overall removal.