Short Bursts of Fresh Air Can Boost Indoor Health, Study Finds

Ventilating homes with short, strategic bursts of open windows can dilute indoor pollutants and lower airborne infection risk, but outdoor pollution near busy roads can lessen the benefit. The effectiveness varies by location (greener, quieter areas fare better), timing (lower pollution periods or after rain), and method (Stoßlüften vs. constant small openings). Overall, a balanced approach—short bursts away from traffic and in well-ventilated edges of the home—can improve health, mood, and cognitive function while potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs.