As a mom of four boys, I usually consider burping to be rude. But when it comes to getting fresh air into my home during the winter, burp away!
In Germany, there is a common habit called “lüften.” It means airing out your home.
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You open windows wide for a short time, then close them again.
On social media in the United States, some people call this same idea “house burping.”
German environmental guidance suggests doing short, wide-airing a few times a day, especially after sleeping, cooking, or showering.
In winter, five to 10 minutes is often enough.
Opening windows on opposite sides (or a window and a door) can create a quick draft that swaps the air faster.
One big benefit is healthier indoor air.
Pollutants from cooking, candles, smoke, and some household products can build up indoors.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explains that ventilation helps remove or dilute airborne pollutants indoors.
The EPA also notes that when ventilation is inadequate, indoor pollutant levels can rise because fresh outdoor air does not dilute them.
Lüften can also lower moisture.
Showers, boiling water, drying laundry, and even breathing add water vapor to the air.
If humid air remains trapped, it can condense on cold windows and walls.
Ventilation helps control indoor humidity, and health guidance says dampness and inadequate ventilation can lead to mold and other microbes in indoor air, which can affect breathing.
Because the windows are open only briefly, lüften is often used as a quick refresh instead of leaving a window cracked for hours.
Germany’s Federal Environment Ministry recommends this short-airing style and suggests turning off the heat while the windows are open to avoid wasting energy.
Finally, “house burping” is not right for every situation.
If outdoor air is smoky (like during wildfires) or very polluted, opening windows can bring those pollutants inside.
The EPA recommends being careful about using ventilation when there are nearby outdoor sources of pollution.
Our air quality is still considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.
But this weekend should be a great time to open up the windows and let out a big burp! Excuse me.