This $50 device monitors indoor air quality for allergens and pollutants

While we often associate air pollution with the outdoors, indoor air can be equally contaminated. Everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, and having pets can deteriorate our indoor air quality, which is crucial for our health and comfort.

Enter air quality monitors. These compact gadgets provide immediate insights into the air we breathe at home, helping us track air quality and ventilation, ultimately promoting better health.

Managing your indoor air is critical for a cleaner, healthier lifestyle. I spoke with experts to explore why these devices are so essential and to find out about the top air purifiers.

What exactly does an air monitor do?

Similar to how a thermostat indicates temperature and a humidistat shows humidity, an air monitor reveals harmful particles in your indoor air.

According to Ken Nelson, an expert in indoor air quality, an air quality monitor helps identify levels of pollutants in your home, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). 'When these levels exceed safe limits, the monitor alerts you so you can reduce exposure,' he explains.

After activities like cooking or cleaning, you may notice spikes in certain pollutants on the monitor.

Here's a quick breakdown of what the readings indicate:

PM1 particles are smaller than 1 micron, including fine allergens, bacteria, and viruses.
PM2.5 particles encompass smoke from sources like wildfires and man-made emissions.
PM10 particles refer to larger materials like dust and pollen that can irritate your respiratory system.
VOCs consist of harmful gases such as formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene.
Some monitors may display formaldehyde as HCHO.

'Air quality monitors come in various designs, from basic plug-ins to sophisticated handheld units,' Ken adds.

It's up to you to choose a monitor that fits your needs, as some devices also track humidity and temperature for a fuller understanding of your indoor air quality.

Why invest in an air monitor?

Dining room with arched window, round white dining table, rattan pendant light, plants and wooden dining chairs — Monitoring your air quality can enhance sleep, alleviate respiratory issues, and reduce allergy symptoms, benefiting your overall health.

To improve your home's air quality, you first need to understand it. By assessing what's in your air, you'll identify what's contributing to poor quality and when to take action. Enhancing your home's ventilation can be one way to address issues, or you can learn the optimal placement for your air purifier.

'Real-time information supports a healthier living environment for you and your family,' Ken notes. 'Your air can contain visible pollutants like smoke and invisible ones such as VOCs or viruses.'

'Some contaminants might seem harmless, but they can impact your quality of life over time. A monitor allows you to identify which pollutants are present, whether due to daily routines or seasonal changes, so you can make informed improvements,' he adds.

As someone with allergies and asthma triggered by common allergens, I've seen a significant reduction in symptoms by managing my air quality; I can't recall the last flare-up I had at home.

Beyond allergies and asthma, maintaining air quality can enhance respiratory health, minimize mold and mildew, improve sleep, and lower stress levels.

Joe Haycock, HVAC expert, explains, 'Instead of guessing, you can clearly see when and why air quality needs improvement. Over time, it can help you identify persistent issues for consistent management.'

Top air quality monitors

Here are some of the most highly-rated air quality monitors available, including the leading air purifier we've evaluated, the Shark NeverChange MAX.

Affordable choice

SKYSHALO Mini Air 8 in 1 Quality Monitor

This versatile 8-in-1 quality monitor from SKYSHALO detects PM1, PM2.5, PM10, VOC, and formaldehyde, refreshing every 1.5 seconds for up-to-date readings.

Highly-rated option

Airthings 2960 View Plus

This air quality monitor from Airthings is one of the best-rated options available for under $500, detecting PM and VOC levels, along with humidity, temperature, CO2, and air pressure.

Top performer

Shark NeverChange MAX

This purifier emerged as the top choice among 17 tested models. The Shark NeverChange MAX efficiently cleans the air while releasing a pleasant scent and features washable filters that can last for up to five years without needing replacement.