Can Christmas Trees Affect Our Air Quality?

By VeSync

December 24, 2024 | 3 min read

Christmas trees are a beloved symbol of the holiday season, bringing warmth, joy, and the unmistakable scent of pine or fir into homes across the world. But while these trees add festive cheer, they may also impact the air quality in your home in ways you might not expect.

Both live and artificial Christmas trees can affect indoor air quality, albeit in different ways. Fresh-cut trees can introduce allergens and mold into your home, while artificial trees might release chemicals or irritants from their manufacturing process. Understanding how Christmas trees interact with indoor air can help you enjoy the season without compromising your comfort.

Can Christmas Trees Cause Allergies?

When you bring a live Christmas tree into your home, you might be surprised to find yourself with a constant runny nose or itchy eyes. It’s estimated that about 7% of the population suffers from Christmas tree-related allergies—putting a real damper on holiday cheer. Pine trees can carry both mold spores and residual pollen, a common allergen, and produce a sticky sap that irritates sensitive skin.

To minimize uncomfortable symptoms triggered by your Christmas tree, there are a few things you can try:

1. Choose the Right Tree

If you’re opting for a real tree, select one with low sap and pollen content, such as a fir or spruce tree, rather than a pine.

2. Rinse the Tree

Thoroughly rinse your live tree with water before bringing it indoors to wash away pollen, mold, and dust. Allow it to dry completely before setting it up inside.

3. Limit Time Indoors

Consider buying your Christmas tree no earlier than mid-December and keeping it inside for only a couple of weeks.

4. Wear Gloves & Long Sleeves

When handling the tree, wear gloves and long sleeves to minimize contact with potential skin irritants, like sap.

5. Maintain a Clean Area

Vacuum the area around the tree regularly to pick up fallen needles and dust.

Alternative Options to Live Christmas Trees

For those who want to avoid the potential allergy concerns of live Christmas trees, there are several alternative options to consider.

1. Artificial Trees

Artificial trees are an obvious alternative for anyone who suffers from live tree-related allergies. Typically crafted from materials like PVC, artificial trees have come a long way and look incredibly life-like. And an added bonus: you can set them up as early as you’d like!

However, while artificial trees eliminate the issue of mold and dust from live trees, certain individuals may find they are sensitive to the materials often used to create them. PVC and other synthetic materials can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, and these compounds can contribute to indoor air pollution and may trigger respiratory issues or allergies in some individuals. So pay attention to your indoor air quality and your respiratory health in the days and weeks that follow the setup of your artificial tree.

2. Potted Christmas Trees

An increasingly popular option, potted Christmas trees can be a good middle ground. These live trees are still rooted in soil, so they are less likely to harbor mold spores compared to freshly cut trees. Additionally, they can be kept in their pot for a longer period, reducing the chance of moisture buildup that fosters mold growth. After the holidays, potted trees can be replanted in your garden or kept as a long-term indoor plant.

3. DIY or Decorated Tree Alternatives

For a truly allergy-friendly and eco-conscious option, some people choose to create their own holiday "tree" using materials like wood, branches, or even recycled items. These DIY alternatives can be decorated just like a traditional tree, without the concerns of mold or chemical exposure.

Conclusion

While live Christmas trees are a wonderful tradition, they may cause a range of related allergies in sensitive individuals. Whether you opt for a live tree, an artificial one, or a creative alternative, we hope the holidays are a breath of fresh air for you and your loved ones. See how a Levoit air purifier, like the Vital 200s, can help improve your indoor air quality.