Know How To Get The Best Out of Air Purifiers And, Philips, Voltas, Eureka Forbes To Acerpure, Check The Top 8 On Flipkart

By NDTV Shopping Desk Published On: Apr 18, 2025 12:22 PM IST Last Updated On: Apr 18, 2025 04:25 PM IST
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We've all heard it before: "Get an air purifier, and your home will be a breath of fresh air." With claims that these gadgets will tackle everything from pet dander to pollen and even viruses, they have quickly become a must-have in homes everywhere. But is it all true? What exactly do these machines clean, and what's still left floating around, causing trouble? Well, air purifiers are designed to do one thing: improve the quality of air we breathe. But the task isn't as simple as it sounds. Not all air purifiers are created equal, and not all airborne particles are the same. Some particles are easier to trap than others, and some air purifiers are better at tackling specific types of contaminants than others.

So, before you go placing one in every room of your home, let's dive into the world of air purifiers and find out what they can actually clean, and just as importantly, what they miss. Also, Philips, Voltas, Eureka Forbes to Acerpure, Check the top 8 air purifiers on Flipkart now.

Also Read: Improve Your Home Air Quality: The Rise Of Air Purifiers And What All They Do

The Truth About Air Purifiers: What They Really Clean and What They Do Not

The Truth About Air Purifiers And The 8 Now Available On Flipkart From Philips, Voltas, Eureka Forbes To Acerpure; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Dust: A Common Foe, But Not Unbeatable

Dust is one of the most common indoor pollutants, constantly finding its way into every corner of our homes. The good news is that air purifiers are pretty effective at capturing dust particles, especially the larger ones. HEPA filters, which are found in many air purifiers, can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, which includes most of the dust in your home.

However, here's the catch: Dust is constantly being stirred up by daily activities like walking, moving furniture, or even breathing. An air purifier can certainly help keep your indoor environment cleaner, but it can't eliminate the fact that dust will continue to accumulate. Think of your air purifier as a helpful teammate in the battle against dust, but not the final solution. Regular cleaning habits combined with the purifier's efforts can make a noticeable difference.

2. Pet Dander: A Persistent Culprit

For pet owners, an air purifier can be a real lifesaver when it comes to cleaning up pet dander. Whether you have a dog, cat, or rabbit, the tiny bits of skin they shed are a common cause of allergic reactions. Pet dander can linger in the air, triggering sneezing, watery eyes, and even asthma symptoms. Thankfully, many air purifiers, especially those equipped with HEPA filters, can effectively capture these tiny particles.

But it's not a miracle fix. Although air purifiers can reduce the amount of pet dander floating around, they won't eliminate it. If your pet is a heavy shedder, you'll need to complement your air purifier with regular grooming, cleaning, and maybe even a few more vacuuming sessions. Essentially, air purifiers do help, but they won't stop you from needing to wipe away the evidence of your furry friend's existence.

The Truth About Air Purifiers: What They Really Clean and What They Do Not

The Truth About Air Purifiers: What They Really Clean and What They Do Not; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Pollen: A Seasonal Struggle

When spring rolls around, the pollen count rises, and for many, this means itchy eyes, a runny nose, and endless sneezing. For allergy sufferers, air purifiers can be a game-changer in alleviating some of these symptoms. Pollen grains are relatively large compared to other allergens, making them easier to capture with the right filter.

However, no matter how well your air purifier works, it won't be able to stop pollen from entering your home unless you take some additional precautions. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use the purifier in rooms where you spend the most time, and be mindful of the amount of pollen your clothes and shoes bring indoors. Your air purifier is a strong ally, but it's still a battle against nature's seasonal forces.

4. Smoke and Cigarette Particles: The Real Test

When it comes to air purifiers, smoke is a true test of their capabilities. Whether it's from cigarettes, cooking, or a nearby bonfire, smoke particles can easily infiltrate your indoor air, leaving behind an unpleasant odour and hazardous particles. While some air purifiers with activated carbon filters can help eliminate smoke odour, HEPA filters are less effective at capturing these microscopic particles.

The thing about smoke is that its particles are often smaller and more pervasive than others, making it harder for some purifiers to handle. If you're dealing with persistent smoke in your home, look for purifiers specifically designed for smoke removal, or consider a combination of air filtration and ventilation. Keep in mind, though, that air purifiers can only do so much; clearing the air of smoke might take more than just turning on the machine.

The Truth About Air Purifiers: What They Really Clean and What They Do Not

The Truth About Air Purifiers: What They Really Clean and What They Do Not; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Viruses and Bacteria: Can Your Purifier Keep You Safe?

As the world has recently come to realise, viruses and bacteria are airborne threats that can travel swiftly through indoor spaces. Many modern air purifiers claim to help reduce the risk of airborne illnesses by filtering out harmful particles. While HEPA filters can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, many viruses are even smaller than that, making them a bit trickier to capture.

However, some air purifiers are equipped with additional technologies, like ultraviolet (UV) light, that can help kill bacteria and viruses. Still, it's important to remember that air purifiers are not a substitute for good hygiene practices, like washing hands or wearing masks. They may reduce the amount of pathogens in the air, but they aren't a guarantee against illness.

6. Mold Spores: Hidden Trouble in Damp Spaces

Mold spores are tiny, invisible to the naked eye, and thrive in damp, humid environments. They're a significant source of indoor allergens, and unfortunately, air purifiers alone can't completely rid your home of them. While they can capture airborne spores floating in the air, they won't remove the source of the problem, such as the damp walls or leaking pipes where mold might be growing.

To effectively combat mold, it's important to address the root causes first, whether that's improving ventilation, using dehumidifiers, or repairing water leaks. Your air purifier will do its part in keeping the air cleaner, but dealing with mould requires a more comprehensive approach.

7. VOCs And Odours: Fighting The Invisible

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that are emitted from various household items such as paints, cleaning products, and even furniture. They often go unnoticed, yet they contribute to the stuffy, unpleasant odours in our homes. Many air purifiers come with carbon filters, which are specifically designed to absorb VOCs and neutralise unpleasant smells.

While these carbon filters can handle odours from cooking, pet accidents, or paint fumes, it's important to know that VOCs can be tricky. Air purifiers may help reduce their concentration, but they're not a cure-all. To truly get rid of VOCs, proper ventilation, using low-VOC products, and ensuring your home is well-ventilated are key. An air purifier can certainly help, but it's just one part of the puzzle.

8. Household Chemicals and Cleaners: Not Quite the Magic Bullet

While air purifiers are great at cleaning the air of many pollutants, they are not designed to remove household chemicals directly. If you've just sprayed a heavy dose of cleaning solution, or if your home is filled with industrial-strength cleaners, an air purifier might help with the lingering odours, but it won't undo the damage caused by the chemicals themselves. For particularly harsh chemicals, ventilation is crucial.

Additionally, many cleaners contain VOCs, which are volatile and can linger in the air. In this case, a purifier with a carbon filter can help, but don't rely on it to completely neutralise the effect of chemicals. Open windows, switch on exhaust fans, and limit exposure to the chemicals in the first place. Air purifiers aren't magic, but they are an excellent part of your overall home environment strategy.

Philips, Voltas, Eureka Forbes To Acerpure,8 Products Related To This Article On Flipkart

1. LEPL Flash LAP1002 Anti-Bacterial, HEPA H13

2. LEPL LAP1001 Pre-filter+HEPA H13+3in1 Carbon Filter

3. PHILIPS AC0920/60 Portable Room Air Purifier

4. Voltas VAP36TWV Portable Room Air Purifier

5. CUCKOO Respure 3-Stage Filtration H13 True HEPA

6. EUREKA FORBES AP 355 4-Stage HEPA & Surround 360° Air Technology Portable Room Air Purifier

7. LEPL Ignite LAP1003 with 7 Stage Filter, Cold Catalyst, HEPA, UV, WIFI, Child lock Portable Room Air Purifier

8. Acerpure Cool AC530-20W with HEPA Filter

Air purifiers are an invaluable tool in improving the quality of indoor air. They help reduce allergens, dust, and pollutants, offering a breath of fresh air in an often-polluted indoor environment. However, they are not a one-stop solution for all your air cleaning needs. There's no substitute for proper cleaning, regular maintenance, and good ventilation.

So, the next time you pop that air purifier on, take a moment to acknowledge its efforts. It's not a magic machine, but it certainly helps make your home more comfortable and breathable. Armed with the knowledge of what they can and can't do, you can use your air purifier more effectively and be realistic about your expectations. And, if you are in the market for one, make sure to check out the top 8 air purifiers on Flipkart, from Philips, Voltas, Eureka Forbes to Acerpure. After all, fresh air is something we all deserve, just don't forget to do your part too.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.

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