5 Best Non-Toxic Air Purifier Picks: Safe Options for Kids!

Clean air is as important as clean drinking water. It is one of the reasons why an air purifier at home is essential for a healthy home.

However, there are hundreds or even thousands of air purifiers on the market today, which makes it harder to look for the best option for you.

Each of them has distinct features, functionalities, and uses. You can easily get overwhelmed by the overabundance of options available.

To help you with this, I’ve compiled some of the best non-toxic air purifiers for kids for a healthy home!

5 Best Non-Toxic Air Purifiers for Kids

If you’re on the hunt for the best non toxic air purifier for kids and babies, you might be lucky enough, as I’ve already listed some below.

Check it out!

1. Air Doctor AD5000 4-in-1 Air Purifier

The Air Doctor AD5000 is one of the BEST air purifiers on my list for a particular reason.

This purifier from Air Doctor has a 3-stag filtration process that starts a pre-filter, Carbon/VOC, and the last one is the UltraHEPA filter, which easily captures particles.

The Air Doctor units can remove almost 99.99% of viruses and bacteria based on lab tests.

It almost INSTANTLY wipes out these harmful microorganisms, compounds, and toxic chemicals in one sitting.

What more can I ask for? Simply amazing!

Another feature I liked the most about the Air Doctor is its durable and portable construction, making it a great addition in large areas such as offices, rooms, and many more.

My kids can play and enjoy the DUST-FREE environment!

Lastly, the Air Doctor Purifier is one of the true HEPA filters on my list, and I will recommend this one!

2. IQAir HealthPro Compact Air Purifier

Most allergists recommend the IQAir HealthPro Compact Air Purifier, so I opted for this product.

What I liked the most about this air purifier is it combines different filtering technologies, such as zeolite, activated carbon, HEPA technology, and many more.

It also significantly affects indoor air quality, allowing your little one to breathe healthily and cleanly without compromise.

This air purifier is also noted for how sturdy and durable the construction is, unlike other air purifiers that only last for a couple of months.

Overall, I liked how the IQAir HealthPro improved indoor quality without producing a weird smell.

My kids were more active and allergy-free, thanks to this purifier!

3. Austin Air HealthMate Standard Air Purifier

The Austin Air HealthMate Standard Air Purifier is a FANTASTIC air purifier that effectively removes 100% of indoor air pollutants.

Austin Air uses a highly-acclaimed medical-grade HEPA filtration system that removes 99.97% of air contaminants down to 0.3 microns.

In addition, Austin Air Purifiers are also designed to remove indoor pollutants and improve indoor air quality, outperforming other purifiers within its price segment.

Its stage 4 filtration system on Austin Air can eradicate particles as large as pet dander, dust, and even hair.

Now, my kids can stop complaining about weird odors while they play!

It is the perfect air purifier for homes with poor indoor air quality.

This Austin Air purifier can also remove small particles such as smoke, pollen, and off-gaseous pollutants from volatile organic compounds found at home.

Lastly, Austin Air Filters leaves NO by-products such as off-gas or other chemical compounds like other purifiers.

4. Amaircare Roomaid HEPA Air Purifier

Amaircare filters are perfect for little rooms intended for infants. They can absorb and reduce particulates from a small room to a car.

My kids enjoyed a peaceful, allergen-free sleep with this purifier!

What I love about this product is that it includes a car kit that can be plugged into your car, so you still enjoy clean and fresh air inside.

Plus, it is quite AFFORDABLE compared to other purifiers on my list. I was pleasantly surprised by how it fared in my big room despite its compact size.

The Amaircare Purifier is only 4.5 pounds, which makes this product portable and can be hand-held even by your toddlers!

Despite being a compact purifier, it can easily filter out particles as small as 0.3 microns and is one of the best units that use true HEPA air filters from its price range.

If you’re on a budget and are looking for a reliable purifier, the Amaircare Roomaid is one of the HEPA air purifiers you should consider.

5. Airpura C600DLX Air Purifier

The Airpura C600DLX Air Purifier uses technology that focuses more on smoke and uses activated carbon filters to purify the air.

As we all know, smoking and second-hand smoke can lead to lung-related illnesses like lung cancer, emphysema, and asthma.

But with this air purifier, you can enjoy cleaner air that filters out dust particles and other indoor toxins that may affect your baby’s health.

Its powerful HEPA barrier can capture the tiniest particles and filter wide areas, leaving your room with unparalleled indoor air quality.

My kids love playing in the living room now that the air is fresher!

This air-purifying unit is ideal for big workplaces, factories, and homes for cleaner and healthier air.

Do You Really Need an Air Purifier?

In my opinion, yes.

We breathe in and out almost 22,000 times per day; imagine you’re inhaling indoor or outdoor air that is polluted.

What can this do to your body?

I would like to think that the air we breathe in our homes isn’t safe for everyone.

In addition, no one can control pollutants from the outdoor air. If you want to know whether you need an air purifier at home, I’ll list why you need one.

EXTRA TIP: If you need another way to prevent nasal congestion, you can try applying Vicks Vapopads on your kid, but ONLY if they are 2 years old or older.

Benefits of an Air Purifier

In other words, what you inhale at home likely comes with indoor air pollutants that may cause different reactions.

If you want to know the benefits of having air purifiers, come and be amazed!

Kills Airborne Bacteria and Viruses

Almost all the purifiers on the list can kill large to small particles. Some can kill airborne bacteria and viruses as small as 0.1 microns.

Whatever you choose from this list, they are specially designed to kill bacteria and viruses instantly.

Airborne diseases such as the common cold and flu can easily irritate your little one’s airways, but having an air purifier at home can easily REDUCE the risk of contracting one.

In addition, when one family member catches a cold, it is inevitable that almost all family members also catch it.

Air purifiers that use HEPA filters can filter particles as tiny as 0.3 microns. You can safeguard your family from these airborne diseases that may affect your kids, especially the little ones.

Lastly, if you are with the elderly, children, or anyone who is sick and immuno-compromised, air purifiers are a MUST!

Neutralizes Unpleasant Odors

Some chemicals break down at room temperature, leaving a very unpleasant odor known as an “off gas” odor when broken down.

These chemicals are VOCs (also known as volatile organic compounds), commonly found in upholstered furniture, aerosol spray, paints, and air fresheners.

The odor coming from these compounds might cause symptoms of nausea, dizziness, breathlessness, and many more.

Studies suggest that indoor air with low concentrations of these VOCs improves performance and productivity.

Air purifiers that use activated carbon filters and HEPA filters are known to be better at neutralizing and trapping these compounds and fine particles, minimizing indoor pollutants and resulting in clean indoor air.

If visitors come to your home, worry not about the unpleasant odor of spices and cooking oils, as air purifiers are great at absorbing their smell!

Air Purifiers Kill Cancer-Causing Bacteria

Chemicals used in our home emit formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and other volatile compounds. These compounds can be commonly found in everyday products such as:

• Dryer sheets
• Rugs/carpet
• Furniture
• Art supplies
• Glue
• Printers
• Air fresheners
• Cleaning supplies

One toxic chemical found in these everyday products is urea-formaldehyde.

If you have furniture at home that uses glue, there’s a likelihood that urea-formaldehyde is present in your indoor air.

Even if you live the healthiest way possible, ONLY air purifiers can mitigate the damage caused by this toxic chemical.

Long exposure to this chemical leads to cancer in both humans and animals.

If I were you, I’d invest in these products!

Improves Sleep

Dust mites, fungi, and bacteria are common allergens that affect our babies and can trigger hay fever.

One of the common signs and symptoms of hay fever is having a runny nose, sore throat, watery eyes, and other allergic symptoms that disrupt sleep.

Lack of sleep is one of the common causes of daytime drowsiness; it greatly affects a person’s performance and productivity.

To avoid these sleep disruptions and deprivations, I highly recommend purifiers that use a HEPA filter, as they can filter out almost all allergens that affect sleep.

Improves Respiratory Health

Better air means better breathing!

With an air purifier at your disposal, you can significantly reduce the chances of respiratory problems of your baby and family.

Say goodbye to asthma, allergies, bronchitis, and more!

As a result, you can protect your immune system from all the pollutants and allergens present in the house.

Chemical-Free

Air purifiers are chemical-free, meaning they DO NOT release chemicals into the household and are completely safe to use!

They are designed to purify the air safely and in such a way that it does not affect the quality of the air we breathe.

Drawbacks to Consider When Buying Air Purifiers

From my experience, there aren’t many drawbacks to using air purifiers at home other than price and maintenance.

Price

One of the drawbacks is the cost. As you may have already seen, these products are quite costly.

It can range from $499 up to $2,499. However, if you prioritize your family’s health, no price can equate to that.

As for me, I prioritized my baby’s health, and I didn’t want him to inhale indoor air with dangerous pollutants.

All I want is for my baby to have a good night’s rest with nothing to worry about.

Maintenance

Air purifiers need some TLC to be at their peak performance!

While it’s not much, cleaning them can easily take up your time. Still, it won’t cost you much if you want to maintain them at their peak form.

Fortunately, there are a lot of online tutorials that will teach you how to clean your air purifier at home.

Air Purifiers Beyond HEPA

A standard HEPA filter won’t simply cut it when looking for the best air purifiers.

In my experience, I’ve learned that the Air Doctor and Austin Air Purifiers are far more efficient than your average purifier that is advertised as a true HEPA filter.

Simply put, I think HEPA is just a buzzword.

According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, there’s no true definition of “HEPA” in consumer products.

Energy Consumption

Some air purifiers use up a lot of electricity, considering you leave them on for long hours of the day.

I would suggest keeping the air purifier on at night while sleeping only.

Granted, there are some air purifiers that do not use up as much electricity as others, so these ones may be better options if you want to cut down on energy consumption.

Noise

Some air purifiers are noisy and can serve as a distraction while sleeping, especially to babies who are sensitive to sound.

Consider a quiet or noise-free purifier if you don’t want a constant humming or buzzing sound running all day.

Size and Portability

Air purifiers aren’t the most travel-friendly appliances. If you plan to travel, you can’t exactly pack one in a suitcase.

Not only that; some air purifiers are too bulky and it can be a hassle to move around.

In my opinion, it doesn’t really make sense to move an air purifier around anyway, as they are meant to be kept in one place.

However, if you must move one from room to room or if you want to travel with one, consider buying one that is small, portable, and travel-friendly.

Types of Air Filters

Each air filter has a different way of tackling airborne and fine particles and smoke, and other toxic gases lurking indoors.

Choose which among these ones best fits your needs.

Carbon Air Filters

A carbon filter is an air filter that uses trillions of molecular-sized pores that are very absorbent and has high chemical bonding ability.

In addition, this type of filter is effective at absorbing toxic pollutants like mold spores, odors, smoke, gases, and chemical emissions.

An air purifier that uses a carbon filter is one of the best types in terms of efficacy and efficiency when absorbing particles.

They are highly recommended when a family member has MCS or Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, as this filter can absorb formaldehyde – an organic compound commonly found in adhesives, furniture, and carpets.

They are also good at trapping and absorbing fragrances and chemicals found in household cleaning products.

Ionic Air Filters

While they are not the best option, Ionic Air filters use negative ions to remove particles in the air.

They are not good at absorbing particles as they only mask the polluted air instead of absorbing it.

The negative ions send the airborne particles to other surfaces, such as the walls, ceiling, and other solid things around the room.

For this reason, I do NOT recommend using this type of air filter. It is better to choose other types of filters instead of this.

UV Light Air Filters

As their name suggests, this filter uses ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses.

When microorganisms and small particles pass through the filter, they are exposed to UV rays that cause cellular damage to these microorganisms.

While a UV light air filter effectively kills bacteria and viruses, it is best used in combination with other filters.

Without a filtering system, some microorganisms can be shaded by tiny particulates that allow them to pass through without being trapped or absorbed.

HEPA Air Filters

HEPA, which stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air or High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestance, is the GOLD STANDARD in air filtration.

These filters can remove up to 99.97% of particles in the air and work in different ways:

• As air flows through the filter, HEPA filters intercept these fine particles and get trapped and absorbed by the fibers.
• A HEPA filter is designed for microscopic particles to get absorbed because of how they move. These particles move in a zigzag that can easily be trapped in fibers.
• Larger particles tend to run into these fibers as they can’t easily adjust to the nature of the airflow, leaving them stuck in these fibers.

They can also trap viruses, molds, and bacteria, creating a clean and sanitary environment for your little one and other family members.

Zeolite Air Filters

Zeolite is a very absorbent mineral composed of hydrated silicon, aluminum, and oxygen compounds.

Purifiers with zeolite filters can easily trap odors and toxic gases like formaldehyde, carbon, and ammonia.

This filter can be used in combination with other types of filters, trapping and absorbing chemicals and odors more efficiently.

Ozone Generators

Purifiers that use ozone filters produce ozone.

However, health professionals deny this type of filter of its claims of being safe and effective. In addition, no agencies nor the federal government have approved of ozone filters.

Remember, exposure to ozone can worsen asthma symptoms. High concentrations of ozone can also lead to scarring of the lungs.

Purifiers that produce ozone don’t remove fine particles such as dust and pollen, rendering them useless if you’re allergic to them.

What to Look For in an Air Purifier

It can be overwhelming when choosing the best air purifier for your home, as there is quite an overabundance of purifiers available.

To help you with this, here are some things you may want to look out for before buying one. Check it out!

Filtration System

As I’ve already mentioned, purifiers use different filtration processes. Air purifiers use different air filters to purify in the best possible way.

In most cases, air-purifying units have two to three air filters; the first is a pre-filter that traps large particles like pet hair.

The second or main air filter traps and absorbs smaller particles.

While most purifiers have no difference between their pre-filters, the type of main air filter a unit will use will be a little more costly.

For example, a HEPA filter is the most expensive choice because it performs better than the other air filter types.

I’ve already discussed how each air filter differs from the others; please refer above if you want to know their differences. Summary of air filters:

• HEPA Air Filter
• Ozone Air Filter
• UV light Air Filter
• Zeolite Air Filter
• Ionic Air Filter

NOTE: Each air filter differs depending on what you need. There are more effective air filters when filtering out allergens and finer particles, whereas some air filters are great for harmful gases and contaminants.

Room Size

Most manufacturers and brands estimate how big a room their unit can clean. It is often expressed in square meters.

Often, these estimates are based on an area or room with an 8ft ceiling. If you have a higher ceiling, the space the unit can clean shrinks.

As a rule of thumb, go for an air purifying unit that can cover a larger area or for the intended purpose.

A small but compact one is a great start if you only need it for your bedroom.

But if you’re using it for larger rooms or conference halls, I’d recommend opting for a unit that can cover these large spaces.

Most manufacturers provide the unit’s ability of how big a room it can clean. It is usually printed on the back of the unit’s box.

Clean Air Delivery Rate

Clean air delivery rate, or CADR, is the measurement by which a purifier can purify the air in a minute.

CADR is often expressed in cubic feet, meaning the higher the CADR is, the more air it can clean in a given timeframe.

In addition, CADR can also tell you how fast a purifier can cleanse an entire room, depending on its size. It is often measured based on the air purifier’s highest fan speed.

Generally, a purifier capable of delivering 250cm is already considered good; anything that surpasses that number is already exceptional!

CADR is a good metric to show if a purifier is performing well. However, it doesn’t tell the whole story.

This metric tells you nothing about a purifier’s ability to remove odors, gases, or VOCs.

Lastly, this metric doesn’t assess the entirety of the unit’s performance over a long period. It only measures at a given timeframe.

Still, having a relatively high CADR is a great start to choosing your air purifying unit.

Portability and Ease of Use

Air purifiers come in various shapes and sizes. If you want to maximize your unit, I recommend a portable one.

When you have a portable air-purifying unit, you can easily transfer it from one place to another.

Air-purifying units are also quite heavy. Search for something lighter for added convenience and ease of use.

On a side note, smaller purifiers are the better option for smaller rooms, whereas bigger ones are for larger spaces.

Energy Efficiency

Air-purifying units are at best when they are constantly functioning, so you’d want a unit that is also energy-efficient.

Some of the units I’ve listed, such as the Austin Air and Air Doctor, are not energy-star certified, but each of these units pulls different amounts of water depending on their fan setting.

Small purifiers like the Amaircare use less power than other units on this list, but that doesn’t mean the Air Doctor and Austin are power-hungry as well; it’s just finding the right balance.

Low Noise Levels

Of course, you want an air purifier that you can run in the background with NO noise to distract you.

Low noise is important, especially for babies who are more sensitive to loud noises.

If you plan to keep an air purifier in the baby’s or kid’s room while they sleep, make sure to get a QUIET one so it does not disrupt their sleep.

Additional Features

Additional features, such as a remote control, programmable timers, and air quality sensors are always nice to have as they can make your life easier.

However, naturally, these features come at higher prices, so consider if they are really worth having.

Price and Warranty

In relation to having additional features, consider your current budget.

Air purifiers can get pricey, you want to get one that is affordable, effective, and will last a long time.

Additionally, a warranty policy will be a big help in case your purifier breaks down or needs replacing.

EXTRA TIP: If you think air purifiers are not for you, you can try using a non-toxic humidifier instead! These are cheaper and smaller, but work just as well at maintaining clean air!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have further questions that haven’t been answered above, you might find some of them below.

Are HEPA Air Purifiers Safe?

While air purifiers are complicated devices, they are perfectly fine and safe around your baby and other family members as long as you take a cautious approach.

Because they can filter out air, your baby and family members can enjoy some of the best air qualities of their lives!

The only exception that a purifier is unsafe is when it is an ozone generator; this type of purifier produces ozone which is quite toxic to people.

Air purifiers that use ozone to filter out particles are dangerous not only for children but also for adults as well.

If you’re looking for a purifier to use around your children, I highly recommend NOT using an ozone purifier to eliminate harmful contaminants and other gases.

The Air Doctor and Austin Air are a good start if you are looking for the best purifiers that use a HEPA filter. They are tested and have been recommended by many users.

Is My Air Purifier Making Me Sick?

Air purifiers don’t cause any health problems. It improves indoor air quality by a mile!

Several factors, including organic compounds present in your home, air pollution, and many more, pollute the air we breathe.

These pollutants can make you sick, but purifiers that clean indoor air at home ensures you will experience more pleasant air than one that is not treated.

Where Should I Place My Air Purifier?

One of the best areas where you should place your purifier is where the concentration of pollutants is at its highest.

You don’t need a professional or expert to know where to place your purifier.

As a rule of thumb, place your purifier where you feel it is the most concentrated part of your home or for the intended purpose.

If you’re using your purifier to absorb smoke, put it in a place where smokers converge.

But if you are allergic to a specific particle, such as dust or pollen, it would be better to place your purifier in your bedroom.

What Features Should Be On My Air Purifier?

Air-purifying units come with several features that make the unit even more enticing. Some of these features include:

• Energy-Star Certifications. I would gladly recommend looking for air-purifying units that have this certification. This certification tells you that the unit saves energy and consumes fewer greenhouse gases, which helps protect the environment and saves you money.
• Smart Features. If you can control your purifying unit with just a few pushes of a button from your phone, it makes the entire product more convenient to use. Look for smart features such as Wi-Fi purifiers.
• Air Quality Indicator. This feature gives real-time updates on how the unit deals with air quality.
• Additional Features. Remote controls, caster wheels, multiple fan speeds, and many more make a unit even more valuable. The more features your unit has, the better.

Why Is Third-Party Testing Important?

Third-party testing Important is important because it’s completely independent.

One of the advantages of products that goes through independent third-party testing is that it’s processed by an INDEPENDENT body, not the brand nor the manufacturer.

These testing centers don’t have biased opinions about products. Instead, they go through rigorous tests to ensure they meet the standards imposed by EPA.

They are also experts in this field to ensure you get the most unbiased review of a certain product.

A product that goes through third-party testing ensures that any air-purifying unit delivers its promises most effectively.

While some manufacturers carry their own tests with their products, the third-party testing center may find issues or defects that a company or manufacturer missed during the testing process.

So, if I were you, choose units that have gone through third-party testing centers to ensure you get what you pay for and get the most out of your unit.

My Favorite Picks

To help trim down your options when choosing, I listed some of my favorite picks to help you pick and choose the right one.

Budget Pick – Austin Air

While it’s not a budget pick by any means, if you prioritize your baby’s health and other family members, I firmly believe this is my budget pick because of how well it performed.

The Austin Air Filter EXCEEDED my expectations. Most allergists recommend it; that’s why I value this unit.

Overall, if some of your family members are sensitive to allergens, I highly recommend Austin Air Purifiers, as they are specially designed for this particular cause.

Best Value – IQAir HealthPro Compact

The IQAir HealthPro Compact comes in as my best value pick due to its performance and ability to eradicate almost 99.9% of disease and allergy-causing particles.

In addition, I’ve experienced a fairly pleasant smell while it was operating at standard settings.

Its construction left me speechless, and it’s a testament that they truly test their products before it leaves the factory. It has that premium feel to it!

Best Overall – Air Doctor AD5000 4-in-1

Air Doctor units are known for their incredible efficiency when tackling some of the tiniest particles known to man.

It passed with flying colors regarding this department.

Despite being on the pricier end, I liked how this AirDoctor air purifier outperformed most of its counterparts in every department.

Its 3-stage filtration process ensures NO particles go unnoticed. I’ve had way better days when I was using Air Doctor.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, there are a lot of advantages if you have an air purifying unit at home.

It improves the air quality at home while trapping and absorbing these hazardous contaminants that may affect your family’s health, especially your little ones.

Have you made your choice already?

I’ve already trimmed down some options you have to make the right choice, from HEPA to a UV-C air purifier. You have many choices to choose from!

I hope you’ll find the right air-purifying unit for your home and your little ones!