It’s fairly simple.
HEPA plus carbon filtering is the key to removing dangerous and stinky stuff from the air.
The shortlist of products I recommend is just below, but…
…read my full review on the best air purifiers on the market today (for different budgets).
Most but not all cost quite a lot, but it’s money well spent.
They all either come with some carbon or have at least a carbon option. Carbon is important for paint smells and other smells.
HEPA alone?
HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters don’t necessarily capture volatile organic compounds (VOCs, or more broadly, odors and fumes). They do get the most toxins, however. This is very important for tiny particles such as mold and dust.
Carbon
To capture VOC’s, you need large amounts of absorbing material such as carbon (most used). Carbon chemically bonds to the VOC’s.
Short-List
- IQAir GC HealthPro Plus – made in Switzerland. They developed a super HEPA filter that grabs pollutants 100x smaller than normal HEPA and takes out odors as well. HealthPro Plus is what I bought (as a painter).
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Dri-Eaz HEPA 700 Air Scrubber – Made in the USA for restoration pros, hospitals, schools etc. Nice inner compartment that lets you vary what filter you need for what pollutants.
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Mila Air Purifier – For lower budgets, and a clever selection of filters. Best in it’s price range.
All of my recommendations have a nice selection of filters (see full review).
Why you must have HEPA
HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters let air pass through easily and capture almost all the particles of a certain size (that low-cost air purifiers miss).
Say goodbye to:
- dust and pollen
- mold, mildew, and fungal spores
- pet dander and dust mite poop (what makes you react)
- wildfire smoke, soot
- engine exhaust and tobacco, and other smoke
- most bacteria and viruses