Why does cooking worsen haze in my home?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I noticed a strange haze lingering in the air even after opening all the windows. The worst part is it seems to get worse every time someone cleans or cooks in the kitchen near my living room. Has anyone else experienced this? How can I prevent it from happening again and keep the air fresh in my home?
Posted by Francois Kaminski
Asked on December 30, 2025 12:50 am
0
Cooking can indeed worsen the haze in your home after a dust storm like the one we had recently. In the UAE, particulate matter from outside can get trapped inside through windows and doors which are opened to ventilate the home. When you start cooking, especially with processes that generate smoke or steam, these particles become more noticeable as they mix with the air and condensate droplets.

In Dubai, we often see this issue post-dust storms because of the high concentration of fine particulate matter (PM10) in the atmosphere during such events. Cooking activities like frying, baking, and even boiling can release additional moisture and oil particles into the air which can then become a carrier for dust and other irritants, making them more visible.

To prevent this from happening again:
• Ensure your kitchen is well ventilated by using exhaust fans or opening windows when cooking.
• Use sealed cooktops if available to minimize smoke and steam release. This helps contain contaminants better than open stoves.
• Consider investing in a HEPA air purifier for the living area where you spend most of your time, especially after storms.

Additionally, it’s always good practice to have an indoor air quality inspection done by professionals like Saniservice who can give you a comprehensive report and tailor recommendations based on local UAE regulations. If the issue persists despite these measures, a professional inspection could help identify any underlying issues that might need addressing.
Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information or to schedule an inspection.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial in protecting your health and well-being, especially during times when external pollutants are prevalent.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 3, 2026 7:52 am