Amid the busyness of packing, moving and preparing for the fall semester, it’s understandable if you haven’t thought much about the indoor air quality (IAQ) in your college student’s dorm. But the move to college can expose students to a number of potential indoor air quality issues. The start of the fall semester coincides with fall allergy season. Plus, the close living quarters of college life make fertile ground for the spread of viruses like the common cold, flu and COVID.   

There’s no question that all students want to avoid allergens, viruses and the other indoor air pollutants that can get in the way of learning and socializing. And they are everywhere: According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air may carry two to five times the level of pollutants as outdoor air. 

Now that you know why indoor air quality is important, it’s time to put together your indoor air quality college dorm checklist.  

 1. Room air cleaner 

A portable room air cleaner should be at the top of your IAQ checklist. Room air cleaners remove indoor air pollutants like dust, smoke, pollen, viruses and bacteria and are the most readily available way to improve indoor air quality in any space. They can also reduce odors, which are much more noticeable in a small space like a dorm room and can cause stress between roommates.  

You will come across many options, so it is important to choose a model that will be effective in your student’s dorm or apartment. It’s easy to do. First, learn the size of the room where the air cleaner will be used. Dorm rooms vary in size, but the average is about 12 ft. x 19 ft. or approximately 225 sq. ft. Find the exact measurements by calling ahead or bring a tape measure on move-in day to learn the room’s square footage. Once you know the size of the room in square feet (for example, a 10 ft. x 12 ft. room = 120 sq. ft.), search the AHAM Verifide® directory for models that have been independently tested for the reduction of airborne pollutants.  The AHAM Verifide® program uses a trusted test method called CADR or Clean Air Delivery Rate, to measure the unit’s performance and its reduction of smoke, dust and pollen. More than 50 brands have undergone testing through AHAM Verifide®, so you are sure to find a product that meets your needs and has been tested to AHAM’s standards. Compare air cleaner models here.

Don’t skip the measurement. A model that is too small will not clean the air effectively. A unit that is too large may generate excessive noise, which can be an issue in a small space like a dorm or apartment (especially with roommates). Some air cleaner models will include a maximum noise level, indicating the number of decibels it puts out at its highest noise level.

2. Replacement air cleaner filters 

Air cleaners don’t need much maintenance, but depending on the model, the filter may need to be replaced periodically. Filters should be changed and cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A warning on replacement filters: Only purchase replacement filters from reputable sources. Replacement air filters are common targets for counterfeiters, who often try to sell the fake filters at bargain prices. Ask the retailer or manufacturer for recommendations on the best source for replacement filters. 

3. Handheld vacuum with a HEPA filter 

A vacuum with a HEPA filter can also help remove pollutants like dust and other particles. Any particle on a surface can easily be kicked into the air. Vacuum regularly to remove them. You can also use the vacuum to remove particles that settle on the surface of the air cleaner. 

More tips to keep the clean air flowing

While space in a dorm room often comes at a premium, the air cleaner should be put closer to the center of the room rather than in a corner or against a wall. This will allow the air to flow more freely through the air cleaner.

Air cleaners don’t need much maintenance. Filters should be changed and cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the outside of the air cleaner periodically to remove any accumulated dust and other pollutants.