Pregnancy is a beautiful yet sensitive period, where the health of the mother and the unborn child are paramount. Pregnancy marks a beautiful, albeit sensitive phase, where the wellbeing of both the mother and unborn child take center stage. A frequently underestimated factor fostering a healthy pregnancy is air quality. Given the ubiquity of indoor air pollution, the act of investing in a proficient air purifier becomes indispensable. This narrative explores the significance of clean air during pregnancy and unfolds a thorough guide on choosing the best air purifier to guarantee a secure and comfortable ambiance for expectant mothers.
Top Air Purifiers Tailored for Expecting Moms in 2023
Best overall: Honeywell HPA300 HEPA Air Purifier
The Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifier Allergen Plus Series For Extra Large Rooms – Black, HPA300 is a robust solution for those aiming to significantly ameliorate the indoor air quality of larger spaces. As part of Honeywell’s esteemed line of air purifiers, the HPA300 model stands out with its high efficiency and user-friendly Features, making it a reliable choice for reducing air pollution indoors.
What We Really Like:
- Outstanding Air Filtration: With its HEPA Filtration, this air purifier is adept at capturing up to 99.97% of microscopic airborne allergens and particles including dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke, ensuring a high-quality air environment indoors. The addition of an activated carbon pre-filter assists in capturing larger airborne particles and reducing odors and VOCs, thus enhancing the air cleaning process.
- Capacious Area Coverage: Specifically designed for extra large rooms, the HPA300 showcases its efficacy in spaces up to 465 square feet, circulating and filtering room air up to 4.8 times per hour. This makes it an ideal air purifier for individuals with spacious living areas.
- Silent Operation: The silent operation feature ensures that the air purifier doesn’t become a source of noise pollution while improving air quality.
- User-Friendly Controls: Easy to use touch controls, along with three cleaning levels and a Turbo Setting, make operation a breeze. The Auto-Off timer option at 2, 4, or 8 hours and a dimmer option for control panel lights provide added convenience.
- Energy Efficiency: The HPA300 is ENERGY STAR certified, illustrating its energy efficiency and making it an economical choice for continuous use.
What We Think Could Be Better:
- Smart Features: The lack of smart connectivity Features like WiFi might be a drawback for tech-savvy users who prefer controlling gadgets via smartphones.
Specs & Features:
- Filter Type: True HEPA filter, Activated Carbon Pre-filter
- Effective Range: Up to 465 square feet
- Noise Level: Silent Operation
- Special Features: 3 Cleaning Levels with Turbo Setting, Auto-Off timer option at 2, 4, or 8 hours, Dimmer option for control panel lights, Filter Change Indicator and Reset
- CADR Rating: Tobacco Smoke: 300, Dust: 320, Pollen: 300
- Price: $269.95 (Discounted from $429.95, saving $160.00, which is 37% off)
- Product Dimensions (LxWxH): 20.8 x 10.83 x 22.38 in.
- Product Weight: 17 lbs.
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited Warranty
- Replacement Filters: True HEPA Filter R (Replace 1x per year), Pre-filter A (Replace every 3 months)
The Honeywell True HEPA Air Purifier Allergen Plus Series For Extra Large Rooms – Black, HPA300 offers a powerful solution for those looking to significantly reduce air contaminants in their living or working spaces. Its high-performance air purification system coupled with user-centric Features makes it a valuable addition to any home, ensuring a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
Best budget: Lasko LP300 HEPA Tower Air Purifier
The Lasko LP300 2-in-1 Air Purifier is a compact yet powerful solution engineered to tackle the myriad of airborne irritants commonly found in indoor environments. Through its TotalProtect Filtration™ system, the LP300 goes beyond the ordinary to deliver pristine air quality, making indoor spaces more breathable and healthier.
What We Really Like:
- High Efficiency Filtration: The True HEPA filtration is the cornerstone of the LP300, capturing a remarkable 99.97% of airborne irritants such as allergens, smoke, odors, VOCs, pet dander, pollen, dust, and mold spores. This thorough filtration ensures a noticeable improvement in indoor air quality.
- Speedy Air Purification: With a 115 CADR rating, the LP300 stands out in its ability to quickly and efficiently cleanse the air, making it a reliable companion in maintaining a fresh indoor atmosphere.
- User-Centric Design: The simple electronic controls, three cleaning speeds, and an 8-hour adjustable timer make operating the LP300 a straightforward affair. This user-friendly design extends to the auto check filter reminder, which informs you of the optimal time for filter replacements, ensuring the purifier’s continued efficiency.
- Long-Lasting Filter Pack: The included filter pack, which lasts up to a year, is a cost-effective feature that adds to the convenience of maintaining the LP300.
- Compact and Suitable for Smaller Spaces: With its compact dimensions and suitability for rooms up to 170 square feet, the LP300 is an ideal choice for home offices, bedrooms, and other similar living spaces.
What We Think Could Be Better:
- Smart Features: The LP300 could benefit from smart Features like WiFi connectivity or a dedicated app for remote control and monitoring, which are becoming common in modern air purifiers.
Specs & Features:
- Model/SKU: LP300
- Weight: 10.35 lbs
- Dimensions: 21.64 in x 10.3 in x 7.3 in
- Cord Length: 6′
- Construction: TBD
- Cleaning Speeds: 3
- Timer: 8-hour adjustable
- Filter Type: True HEPA
- CADR Rating: 115
- Effective Range: Up to 170 square feet
- Filter Life: Up to 1 year (depending on usage and air quality)
- Safety Features: Trusted safety fuse technology
The Lasko LP300 2-in-1 Air Purifier is a dependable choice for those looking to significantly reduce the levels of common air contaminants within smaller indoor spaces. Its high-performance air purification, combined with a user-friendly design and long-lasting filter, offers a solid blend of convenience and efficiency. Whether stationed in a home office or a cozy bedroom, the LP300 stands ready to deliver cleaner, fresher air.
Best for odors: Blueair DustMagnet 5410i Tabletop Air Purifier
The DustMagnet™ 5410i Air Purifier comes as a modern-day sentinel against airborne irritants, boasting a blend of intelligent engineering and aesthetic appeal. This device has been crafted not just to purify your indoor air, but to blend seamlessly into your living space, doing its job quietly yet efficiently.
What We Really Like:
- Effective Air Purification: The patent-pending technology which removes 99% of airborne dust before it settles, is a remarkable feature that ensures your indoor air stays fresh and less dusty. It doesn’t just stop at dust; it efficiently handles pollen, cooking odors, pet dander and odors, mold particles, bacteria, viruses, smoke, and chemicals.
- Award-winning Design: The accolades of iF Design Award Winner 2021 and RedDot Winner 2021 are testaments to its sleek, Scandinavian design which not only purifies the air but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your space.
- Optimal for Medium Spaces: With the capacity to filter air in a 357 ft² space in about 12.5 minutes or up to 1,713 ft² in one hour on high speed, this purifier is ideal for medium spaces like primary bedrooms, living rooms, and playrooms.
- Smart Features: The ‘Welcome Home’ feature which automatically turns the unit on and off as you come and go, alongside the in-app ‘Clean Air ETA’ feature and real-time in-app filter tracking, bring a level of smart convenience that is laudable.
- Noise Efficiency: The maximum filtration with minimum noise feature ensures your peace is undisturbed while the air gets cleaned up to 45% faster with up to 67% less noise than traditional HEPA filtration alone.
- COVID-19 Particle Capture: The ability to capture 99.99% of SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) particles in a specified room size is a timely and reassuring feature in these pandemic times.
What We Think Could Be Better:
- Price Point: Initially priced at $399.99, though currently on sale at $199.99, the cost might be a little steep for some, but given its Features, it could be a worthwhile investment for cleaner indoor air.
Specs & Features:
- Model/SKU: LP300
- Weight: 10.35 lbs
- Dimensions: 21.64 in x 10.3 in x 7.3 in
- Effective Range: Up to 357 ft² (and up to 1,713 ft² in one hour on high speed)
- Filter Type: Patent pending DustMagnet™ technology
- Special Features: 3 cleaning speeds, 8-hour adjustable timer, auto check filter reminder, real-time in-app filter tracking, Welcome Home feature, Clean Air ETA feature, air quality indicator
- Price: $199.99 (Discounted from $399.99)
- Warranty: Free extended warranty (details not specified)
The DustMagnet™ 5410i Air Purifier is a confluence of smart technology, effective air purification, and modern design, making it a desirable addition to any home or office. Its patent-pending technology coupled with a user-friendly app for real-time monitoring and control positions it as a strong contender for those looking to invest in a high-quality air purifier. The discounted price makes it a valuable deal for a device that brings a lot to the table in ensuring your indoor air stays clean and fresh.
Best quiet: Blueair HealthProtect 7470i Smart Air Purifier
The Protect 7470i Air Purifier is an epitome of advanced air purification technology bundled with a sleek design, bringing you a device that not only ensures clean air but does so intelligently and stylishly. This air purifier comes with a substantial price tag of $599.99, but the array of Features it offers justifies the investment for a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
What We Really Like:
- Advanced Filtration and GermShield™ Technology: The patent-pending GermShield™ technology which offers 24/7 protection against viruses and bacteria is a groundbreaking feature that sets it apart. This, combined with the HEPASilent Ultra™ technology, ensures maximum filtration with minimal noise.
- Award-winning Design: The iF Design Award Winner 2021 and RedDot Winner 2021 accolades speak volumes about the sleek design and innovative Features of this air purifier.
- High Efficiency for Large Spaces: The ability to filter air in a 418 ft² space in about 12.5 minutes, or up to 2,006 ft² in one hour on high speed, makes this purifier a suitable choice for large spaces like primary bedrooms, living rooms, or playrooms.
- COVID-19 Particle Capture: The claim of capturing 99.99% of SARS-COV-2 (COVID-19) particles in a specified room size is reassuring in these uncertain times.
- Smart Features: From the ‘Welcome Home’ feature that uses geo-fencing technology to the SmartFilter with a smart RFID chip for proactive filter monitoring, and the Premium LCD Screen for real-time air quality updates, the Protect 7470i is loaded with smart Features for a user-friendly experience.
- Quiet and Energy Efficient: Identified as one of the quietest products within its category and rated as an energy-efficient air purifier, it ensures clean air without a spike in your energy bills or a disturbance in your peace.
What We Think Could Be Better:
- Price Point: The price might be on the higher side, which could deter budget-conscious buyers. However, the innovative Features and superior performance could make it a worthy investment for those prioritizing air quality.
Specs & Features:
- Model: Protect 7470i
- Price: $599.99
- Effective Range: Up to 418 ft² (and up to 2,006 ft² in one hour on high speed)
- Special Features: GermShield™ technology, HEPASilent Ultra™, SpiralAir™ outlets for 360° omnidirectional airflow, ‘Welcome Home’ feature, SmartFilter, Premium LCD Screen, Advanced sensors & clean air ETA, and is Verifide(R) for performance and Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR).
- Awards: Best Smart Air Purifier 2021, IF Design Award Winner 2021, RedDot Winner 2021
- Certifications: Certified to meet ozone safety standards, Identified as one of the quietest products within the category, Rated as energy-efficient air purifiers.
The Protect 7470i Air Purifier is a sophisticated device that brings a suite of intelligent Features to keep indoor air clean and healthy. It is especially ideal for those who are willing to make a higher initial investment for long-term benefits in air quality and smart functionality. The innovative Features like GermShield™ technology and HEPASilent Ultra™ are steps towards a future where air purifiers do more than just filter air, they become an integral part of our smart homes, ensuring a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment.
Best for small rooms: Levoit 300S Air Purifier
The Levoit Core® 300S Smart Air Purifier is a compact, budget-friendly option for those looking to enhance the air quality in their homes. With a price tag of $149.99, it offers a host of smart Features typically found in more expensive models. Whether you’re concerned about common allergens like pollen and pet dander, or looking to combat household odors, this purifier is up to the task.
What We Really Like:
- Smart Connectivity: The VeSync app connectivity and voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant™ are standout Features that allow for seamless control, no matter where you are in your home.
- 3-Stage Filtration: The purifier offers 3-stage filtration that’s capable of trapping a variety of particles including fine dust, smoke particles, pollen, pet dander, bacteria, mold, viruses, and VOCs.
- Customizable Filtration: The option to pair it with Levoit Core 300 3-Stage Pet Allergy Filter, Toxin Absorber Filter, or 4-Stage Smoke Remover Replacement Filter is a commendable feature, allowing customization based on specific needs.
- Silent Operation: The QuietKEAP™ Technology ensures the purifier operates quietly, making it ideal for bedrooms or study rooms.
- Real-Time Air Quality Updates: The AirSight™ Plus Technology scans the surrounding air and provides real-time air quality updates, which is an excellent feature for those who want to monitor the effectiveness of the purifier in real-time.
What We Think Could Be Better:
- Room Size Limitation: The purifier is ideal for a room size of 219 ft² / 20 m², which may not be sufficient for larger spaces. However, it’s perfect for smaller rooms or individual office spaces.
Specs & Features:
- Model: Core 300S
- Price: $149.99
- Effective Range: Ideal room size of 219 ft² / 20 m²
- Special Features: VeSync app connectivity, Voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant™, QuietKEAP™ Technology, VortexAir™ Technology, Ozone Free, 1-24 Hour Timer, Check Filter Indicator, 3-Stage Filtration, Sleep Mode.
- Additional Filters Available for Purchase: Levoit Core 300 3-Stage Pet Allergy Filter ($35.99), Toxin Absorber Filter ($35.99), and 4-Stage Smoke Remover Replacement Filter ($39.99).
The Levoit Core® 300S Smart Air Purifier is a fantastic choice for individuals on a budget but still wanting smart functionality and reliable air purification. Its smart controls, efficient 3-stage filtration, and the convenience of voice control make it a worthwhile investment for a healthier indoor environment.
Understanding How Air Purifiers Work
The quest for breathing cleaner air has led many to explore the best options of air purifiers on the market. Whether it’s to shield a pregnant woman’s lungs from the harmful effects of polluted air or to generally enhance the air quality in your home, understanding the mechanics behind air purifiers is crucial. These devices come in handy to clean the air by reducing the exposure to air pollution, which is pivotal especially during the sensitive phases such as the 20th week of pregnancy. This guide sheds light on the primary technologies employed by air purifiers to keep our indoor atmospheres healthy and breathable.
HEPA Filter Technology
High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are the cornerstone in a majority of air purifiers on the market. They are engineered to capture particles from the air as minute as 0.3 microns, encompassing a range of airborne nasties like allergens, dust, and smoke. This makes them a great air purifier choice for anyone keen on significantly reducing particulate matter in their indoor environment.
A high-performance air purifier with HEPA filter technology can be an especially wise investment for pregnant women. The filters work diligently to minimize the air pollutant known as pm2.5 and other micro-particles, promoting a safer breathing environment which is less likely to trigger allergies or other respiratory issues.
Other Technologies
Beyond HEPA, several other technologies contribute to the efficacy of air purifiers:
- Activated Carbon Filters: These are stellar for odor elimination. They have a knack for adsorbing odorous compounds and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that float around in your home’s air. The activated carbon air filtration technology is often paired with other filtration technologies to provide a more comprehensive air cleaning solution.
- UV-C Light: A step towards sterility, UV-C light technology in air purifiers is employed to kill bacteria and viruses. This can be a vital feature to keep the air in your home healthy, especially during flu season or in the current pandemic era.
- Ionizers: By generating ions, these air purifiers help in attracting and neutralizing airborne particles. Ionic air purifiers operate by imparting a charge to particles in the air, which are then attracted to oppositely charged plates within the purifier, effectively removing these particles from the ambient air.
Choosing the Right Air Purifier
When on the lookout for the best air purifier for pregnancy or just a reliable large room air purifier, it’s essential to consider the types of pollutants you are aiming to eliminate and the size of the space you need to purify. For instance, if odors are a concern, an affordable air purifier with an activated carbon filter might be a smart choice. On the flip side, if bacteria and viruses are your main concern, looking for an air purifier with UV-C light technology could be advantageous.
Air purifiers come in a variety of models and incorporate different technologies to improve the air quality in your home. It’s advisable to consult with California Air Resources board or similar authoritative bodies to ensure the air purifiers are safe and effective for your specific needs, particularly if you are pregnant or have newborns.
Air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, UV-C light, and ionizers provide a sturdy solution for nurturing a wholesome indoor environment. By grasping how these technologies operate, you’re empowered to make a well-informed choice that aligns with your particular air quality needs, transforming your residence into a sanctuary of pure, breathable air.