What is CADR Rating? A Guide to Clean Air Delivery Rate

What is CADR Rating? A Guide to Clean Air Delivery Rate

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  In the world of air purifiers, you must have heard about the term CADR. But what is CADR rating, and how is it measured? If you live in a wildfire-prone area or have asthma/allergies, understanding CADR helps you size a purifier correctly and avoid underpowered picks. In this guide, we’ll break down what CADR means, how it’s measured, and how to use it to choose the right model for your space. Table of Contents What Is CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate)? How Is CADR Measured? What Is a Good CADR Rating​? Debunking Common CADR Myths FAQs about the Clean Air Delivery Rate Conclusion   What Is CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate)? CADR stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate, a rating of how much-filtered air is produced at maximum fan speed. It is the simplest way to compare how fast an air purifier actually cleans a room. Think of it as the unit’s clean-air speed: the higher the number, the faster levels of smoke, dust, and pollen drop. CADR is a metric managed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) to measure the indoor performance of home air purifiers. It shows the ability of an air purifier to remove smoke, pollen, and dust particles from a room of a certain size.     Particle Types & Ratings of CADR So, CADR tells you how fast a purifier clears the air and how effectively it can filter specific particles. You can find the AHAM seal on the back of your cleaner’s unit, displaying three CADR numbers for different types of particles. These three particles, ranging from small to medium to large size, are tested to have their own ratings.   The table below shows what each number means: Particle Type Particle Size CADR Performance Rating Tip Dust (eg, house dust) 0.09-1.0 microns 10-400 Good for everyday dust control. Smoke(eg. Tobacco, or wildfire smoke) 0.5-3 microns 10-450 Prioritize this if smoke is your main concern. Pollen (eg, seasonal pollen, or allergy-prone individuals) 5-11 microns 25-450 Key for allergy relief.   Note: The higher the CADR number of the model, the faster it will remove that particle from the air. It is important to check the local Air Quality Index (AQI) reports to monitor the air quality. The higher AQI is due to higher PM2.5 that can easily penetrate to lungs and bloodstream, leading to health risks. It is roughly the size of dust and smoke. Understanding the PM2.5 CADR number is important for safer daily living. Suppose your home is highly exposed to smoke or traffic emissions. So an air purifier with a high CADR score for smoke will quickly remove the smoke from the air.   CADR Certification & Standards The Clean Air Delivery Rate is tested and certified under standardized methods to ensure consistency across products. In the United States, CADR is measured using the AHAM protocol, which places the purifier in a controlled test chamber to evaluate how quickly it reduces dust, pollen, and smoke. Results are verified through the AHAM Verifide® program, so consumers can trust the numbers shown on the label. In addition to CADR itself, other recognized standards play a role. ENERGY STAR certification highlights models that balance high CADR with energy efficiency and also sets limits on ozone emissions, keeping devices safer for long-term use. Meanwhile, filter classifications such as HEPA grades describe the filter’s efficiency but do not replace CADR testing, since CADR reflects the performance of the entire unit. Together, these certifications help homeowners compare models with confidence, ensuring not only speed of purification but also energy savings, safe operation, and verified filter performance.     How Is CADR Measured? In the US, CADR is measured in CFM using standardized chamber tests that track how quickly a purifier reduces these pollutants. But in some regions like Asia, it is measured in cubic meters per hour (m³/h). To compare the products globally, 1 CFM is approximately equal to 1.7 m³/h. CFM = m³/h ÷ 1.7 m³/h = CFM × 1.7 For example, 235 CFM ≈ 400 m³/h. To calculate the CADR number, the AHAM-certified lab testing is done in a controlled chamber of 1008 cubic feet. The CADR score is deduced from the following formula: CADR = Q × (E - E0) Where Q is the airflow expressed in cubic feet, E is the pollutant removal efficiency, and E0 is the natural pollutant decay. You don’t have to calculate it as the CADR values are provided by the manufacturer. In easy terms, CADR indicates the airflow (CFM) times the efficiency of the air filter. The higher the efficiency of the filters and airflow, the higher the maximum CADR ratings. For example, an air filter with 235 CFM and 80% efficiency would result in a CADR of 188.   What Is a Good CADR Rating​? It depends on your room size. According to the 2/3 rule by AHAM, the CADR should be at least 2/3rd of the room area. For example, a 100 CADR air purifier is best for a room size of 150 square feet. It is believed that open-plan homes require air purifiers with a CADR score of around 300-400 CFM to clean them effectively. But modern air purifiers with compact size can clean air in larger spaces effectively without needing multiple units. One such example is Dreame’s AirPursue PM20 of CADR 235 CFM; it can clean the big spaces up to 1,690 sq ft.     Size Up Your Room for Optimal Air Purification Here is a step-by-step guide to accurate room sizing for maximum performance. Step 1: Find out the room area by measuring the length and width in square feet using a measuring tape. Step 2: Multiply this area by the ceiling height to find out the volume in cubic feet. Step 3: Use the given formula to find out the ACH according to use. ACH = CADR × 60 ÷ Room volume (cubic feet) Air Changes per Hour, or ACH, is the number of times the unit filters a room’s air volume in an hour. Step 4: Evaluate the needed CADR to remove the pollutants, keeping in view the air exchange per hour. Step 5: Lastly, use a decision matrix to choose the best air purifying unit for your house. Still confused? Let’s consider the example of the Dreame AirPursue PM20 unit. It has a CADR of 235 CFM or 400 m³/h. The ACH for a 1,600 cubic feet room volume (when the room area is 200 sq ft with an 8 ft ceiling) is 8.8. It can achieve 2-5 air exchanges in an hour, making it a good choice for a highly polluted zone.   Beyond CADR — Choosing the Right Air Purifier For choosing the right unit, we believe that more information is required. You must also look for: Type of filter: Filters like HEPA can remove particles of 0.3 microns in size, important for efficient filtration. Smart features: Intelligent units having auto modes and sensors help in tracking the performance as well as adjusting the fan speed automatically. Energy Efficiency: Having an EnergyStar-certified air purifier will save energy. Noise level: Since they are used consistently, choose the unit that is not too loud.   Our Standards of Clean Air Breathe cleaner air in every corner, not just beside the purifier. CADR is useful—but it only measures how fast particles drop in lab tests, not how evenly clean air spreads at home. At Dreame, we design for Even Purification: powerful airflow, directional guidance, and continuous circulation that push clean air across the entire room. The result is more consistent protection—especially in large spaces, busy areas, and homes with pets.   Want protection beyond CADR? Learn how Even Purification keeps the air in your whole room truly clean.   Debunking Common CADR Myths Myth 1: Higher CFM = higher CADR. CADR does not only reflect air flow. It also takes into account the pollutant removal efficiency. Hence, a higher CFM (air flow) does not mean a higher CADR number. Myth 2: HEPA equals high CADR. HEPA filtration ensures trapping the dust, smoke, and pollen particles effectively. But it doesn’t assure a high CADR if the directed air flow is not strong. Myth 3: One standard applies to all spaces (e.g., dorm vs open plan). The home layouts and higher ceilings (more than 8 ft) also affect the performance. One purifier might not be enough for larger spaces. Also, using an air purifier with a higher CADR in small apartments will waste energy. Thereby, read the manufacturer’s recommendations on room sizing. Myth 4: CADR alone guarantees health outcomes. Even if you buy an air purifier with a high CADR, it does not guarantee an improved air quality. You would need to maintain the unit and use it consistently to avoid health risks.     FAQs about the Clean Air Delivery Rate Q: Do larger purifiers always have higher CADR? A: Not necessarily. The higher CADR also depends on the quality of the filter and the fan’s performance. Modern compact-sized air purifiers like Dreame ones can generate a higher CADR. Q: How do I interpret CADR for my room? A: Follow the AHAM’s 2/3 rule and ACH calculations described earlier. Q: Can I use multiple units effectively? A: Yes, placing multiple air purifiers will clean the air better in larger spaces or in higher ceilings.   Conclusion Even so, CADR is not a standalone factor; it is a critical metric in selecting the right air purifier. Along with CADR, keep in mind the living conditions, room size, and personal needs for optimal performance. The Dreame AirPursue PM20 exemplifies this balance with its impressive CADR of up to 400 m³/h, swiftly purifying large spaces. Its smart features, including AI-driven auto mode, real-time air quality monitoring, and app controls, make it effortless to maintain pristine air during allergy season or in pet-filled homes, where dander and odors can spike. For expert air quality tips and ideas on fostering healthier indoor spaces, explore Dreame AirPursue today.
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What Is Air Quality & AQI? A Comprehensive Guide

What Is Air Quality & AQI? A Comprehensive Guide

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  When you look at your phone, have you ever come across a number saying "AQI"? It could have read 80 or 150. And then you thought to yourself, "Huh? What was that?" Quite a few people have asked the same question before you! Air quality refers to the cleanliness or dirtiness of the air surrounding a person. It is a measurement index known as AQI, a number indicating whether the air is good enough for breathing or not. If the number is low, it indicates good, clean air. But if it is higher, the associated air might be harmful. Let's learn more about what air quality is and how you can manage a good air quality index. In this article, you'll read: • What Is Air Quality? • How to Understand the Air Quality Index (AQI) • Why Air Quality Matters for Your Health • How to Improve Air Quality at Home   What Is Air Quality? Air quality refers to the level of cleanliness or pollution in the air. It is affected by various sources that release harmful substances. Outside, cars and trucks produce smoke, while factories release emissions that cloud the atmosphere. Wildfires and windblown dust also worsen air quality by spreading particles that linger and affect our ability to breathe. These pollutants can make it more difficult to stay healthy, particularly in cities with heavy traffic or industrial activity. Inside our homes, everyday activities harm air quality as well. Household sprays and cleaners release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Dust accumulates from furniture, pet fur introduces allergens, and smoke from cooking or other sources reduces air freshness. These indoor pollutants can create an unhealthy environment, especially for sensitive groups like children and older adults. They may experience coughing, sneezing, or breathing difficulties when exposed to poor air quality over time. Key pollutants include tiny PM2.5 particles from smoke, larger PM10 dust, ozone from vehicle emissions and sunlight, and gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide from cars and factories. Understanding these factors helps us improve air quality. For instance, we can use air purifiers to reduce indoor pollutants and create healthier homes.   How to Understand the Air Quality Index (AQI)  AQI means "Air Quality Index." It tells you if the air is clean or dirty. The range extends from 0 to 500. The higher the number, the higher the pollution level. Following is a simple listing:     • 0–50 (Green): Air is good. Go outside and play! • 51–100 (Yellow): Air is okay. But some kids with asthma should be careful. • 101–150 (Orange): Not so good. Kids and old people should stay inside. • 151–200 (Red): Bad air. Try not to go outside. • 201–300 (Purple): Very bad! Stay inside. • 301–500 (Maroon): No going outside whatsoever. People generally rely on AQI to know it is safe when they play outside, walk, or even go to school. You can also look up AQI on websites such as AirNow.gov or AQI.in.   Why Air Quality Matters for Your Health  Breathing in dirty air can affect your health. Frequent exposure to pollutants can lead to various health problems, including persistent coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. These issues can make daily activities, like climbing stairs, feel exhausting. Poor air quality can lead to chronic health problems in the long run. The following groups of people are more vulnerable to poor air quality issues: • Infants and children • Pregnant women • Older adults Even cats and dogs can get sick from bad air. They might sneeze or feel tired too. If you smell smoke or something strong, go inside. Sit in a clean room and drink water. You can tell someone if the air smells bad. They can check if the air is okay outside.     How to Improve Air Quality at Home  We can’t always fix outside air, but we can make the air inside our homes better! Here are some of the best indoor air quality solutions: • Open windows when the air outside is good. • Don’t use smelly sprays or strong cleaners. • Don’t smoke inside the house. • Get some air-cleaning plants like spider plants. • Use an air purifier at home.     Air purifiers help clean indoor air. One smart choice is the Dreame PM20 Air Purifier. It can effectively catch dust, smoke, and tiny particles. It can show you what’s in the air with a screen. It also works quietly, so you can sleep or study. It has: • 4-Layer Filtration System: Effectively captures dust particles up to 0.3 µm in diameter. It features an efficient activated carbon layer that adsorbs and traps toluene, VOC, formaldehyde, and other harmful volatile gases to reduce indoor air pollution. This helps filter the indoor air, allowing you to breathe in pollutant-free air and ensuring your health. • Human Tracking by Radar: It can switch on automatically when a person is nearby. It detects human motion in real-time and can start filtering air when the person is close to the purifier. • Smart Circulation Fans: Unlike conventional purifiers, Dreame’s dual-way air outlet blows purified air both upward and forward, doubling as a cooling fan or air circulator. • Dual Elimination: The purifier features double filtration technology that filters indoor air and discharged air. This prevents bacteria from settling in the purifier. It also ensures the air quality index remains excellent indoors.   The Final Thought  Air quality management is essential. The AQI informs us when our outdoor activities are safe. In the event of poor air quality, we may opt to stay indoors and employ measures to keep the air clean. We may not even know that the air is bad. We can’t see it or smell it. But it can still hurt us. That’s why checking AQI helps. Even if the sky appears clear, it may carry invisible pollutants. You should always check the air quality index before going out. Air purifiers from Dreame keep on filtering the air even when you are asleep, awake, or doing household chores. It’s important to monitor air quality daily to ensure your and your loved ones’ health. Stay safe. Breathe clean!
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Can Dreame AirPursue Help Reduce Smoke Indoors?

Can Dreame AirPursue Help Reduce Smoke Indoors?

yukun |
Can Dreame AirPursue Help Reduce Smoke Indoors? From wildfire season to kitchen mishaps, indoor smoke is more than just unpleasant—it’s dangerous. Fine smoke particles and harmful gases can linger in your home for hours, irritating your lungs and increasing long-term health risks. The Dreame AirPursue™ Series is built to take smoke seriously. Whether it’s from cooking, a nearby wildfire, or indoor tobacco use, Dreame has the filtration power to protect your home’s air. 🌫️ Filters Fine Particles and Harmful Gases Dreame’s four-layer system doesn’t just block particles—it neutralizes toxins. The carbon layer and formaldehyde-catalyst filter work together to trap: Fine smoke particles (PM2.5 and smaller) Carbon monoxide and harmful gases Odors from cooking or tobacco Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during combustion The result? Cleaner, fresher air—fast. In lab tests, Dreame PM20 purified a 1,883 sq. ft. space in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal option for open-concept homes or large rooms during smoke events. 💤 Safe to Run Overnight Smoke can build up without you noticing, especially at night. That’s why Dreame AirPursue’s ultra-quiet 32dB sleep mode is so valuable. It runs silently while you sleep, keeping air clean without disturbing your rest. Smart sensors continue working even in sleep mode, automatically increasing purification if smoke is detected. 🌬️ Don't wait until the smoke settles. 👉 Protect your home with Dreame AirPursue today and breathe easy—even during wildfire season.
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Can Dreame AirPursue Relieve Allergy Symptoms?

Can Dreame AirPursue Relieve Allergy Symptoms?

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If you or your family suffer from allergies, you know how disruptive they can be—from sneezing and itchy eyes to fatigue and poor sleep. And while medications help, one of the most effective ways to relieve symptoms is by removing allergens from the air itself. That’s where the Dreame AirPursue™ Series comes in. 🌸 Targets Common Allergy Triggers Most allergic reactions are caused by airborne particles that circulate constantly indoors. The Dreame AirPursue Series targets and traps the most common triggers, including: Pollen, especially during spring and fall allergy seasons Pet dander, from dogs, cats, and other furry companions Dust mites, which thrive in bedding and upholstery Mold spores, found in humid corners and basements Its high-efficiency 4-layer filter system is designed to capture 99% of allergens, reducing the irritants that cause coughing, sneezing, and congestion. 🤖 Real-Time Response for Ongoing Relief Dreame’s smart detection system uses AI-powered sensors to monitor air quality around the clock. When allergens are detected, the purifier automatically adjusts its settings to increase airflow and trap more particles—all without any input from you. And thanks to its ultra-quiet sleep mode, you can keep it running all night—without noise disturbing your rest. Clean air supports deeper sleep and more refreshed mornings, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities. Say goodbye to allergy-triggered discomfort.👉 Get Dreame AirPursue and keep allergens out of your air—day and night.
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What Pollutants Can the Dreame AirPursue Remove from the Air?

What Pollutants Can the Dreame AirPursue Remove from the Air?

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The air inside your home may look clean, but it can be filled with invisible threats to your health and comfort. From allergens to harmful gases, indoor air pollution is a growing concern—especially in tightly sealed modern homes. The Dreame AirPursue™ Series is built to address this challenge with powerful, multi-stage filtration. Unlike traditional purifiers that may rely on one or two filters, Dreame uses a four-layer system that targets a wide spectrum of airborne pollutants. 🛡️ Four Layers of Defense Against Polluted Air Here’s how Dreame’s filtration system works: Magnetic Housing – A smart design that allows for quick, secure filter changes, making maintenance easy and hassle-free. Composite Filter – Captures larger airborne particles such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites, common triggers for asthma and allergies Carbon Layer – Absorbs harmful gases, cooking odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, often released by furniture, flooring, and cleaning products. Formaldehyde-Catalyst Filter – A specialized layer that actively breaks down formaldehyde molecules, offering long-lasting protection from toxic indoor air pollutants. This combination enables Dreame AirPursue to remove up to 99.9% of airborne contaminants, making your indoor air safer to breathe. 🌬 What Exactly Does It Remove? Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds Pet dander and fur, even from short-haired breeds Dust mites, a major cause of indoor allergies Mold spores that thrive in damp environments Smoke particles, from wildfires or cooking VOCs and gases from household items Formaldehyde, often found in pressed-wood products Bacteria and airborne viruses In short, it’s not just a filter—it’s a shield against modern indoor air threats. 💡 Clean air isn't optional. It's essential. 👉 Explore the Dreame AirPursue Series and discover what true purification feels like.
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How to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke Indoors: Practical Tips for Cleaner Air

How to Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke Indoors: Practical Tips for ...

yukun |
  Wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and severe in the United States, posing an alarming situation. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, there have been approximately 40,000 wildfires in the United States as of August, and more than three million acres of land have been burned. This requires immediate attention, as wildfire smoke can infiltrate homes and negatively impact indoor air quality (IAQ). It has become essential to have proactive indoor air protection strategies in place to keep you and your loved ones safe. In this blog, you’ll learn how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke and the various practical, evidence-based tips to reduce indoor smoke exposure. Table of Contents The Risks of Wildfire Smoke Indoors Are Wildfires a Threat Where You Live? How to Reduce Indoor Wildfire Smoke Exposure Seal Your Home Optimize HVAC Systems Create a Clean Room How to Remove Wild Smoke From Your House Additional Wildfire Smoke Precautions for Vulnerable Groups Conclusion   The Risks of Wildfire Smoke Indoors Wildfire smoke is hazardous as it contains fine particles, such as PM2.5, gases like carbon monoxide, and other toxins. Learn more about the components of wildfire smoke and their dangers here. These contaminants can easily penetrate homes through windows, doors, and ventilation systems. According to the EPA, it's essential to monitor your indoor air quality index (AQI), and if the levels exceed 101, this indicates unhealthy conditions, necessitating indoor precautions.   Are Wildfires a Threat Where You Live? If you live in high-risk areas, it is extremely important to understand the geographic distribution of wildfires to keep yourself prepared in times of uncertainty. To better understand this challenge, we utilized data from multiple sources to create a map of wildfire severity in the United States, aiming to reveal the geographical distribution patterns of wildfires.   [caption id="attachment_38658" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Analysis of Wildfire Severity Across U.S. States Based on Acreage Burned and Number of Incidents[/caption]   The map reveals that wildfire risk is highest in the western United States, particularly in California, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, and parts of Colorado. Scientists predict a sharp rise in very large fire weeks (times when conditions are ideal for massive fires) by mid-century, especially across the Great Basin, Northern Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Klamath Mountains. These areas experience frequent dry conditions, high temperatures, and dense vegetation, all of which fuel large wildfires. By mid-century, the risk of very large fires is projected to increase sixfold in some regions due to climate change.   How to Reduce Indoor Wildfire Smoke Exposure If you live in risky areas, you need to be proactive and keep yourself prepared for emergencies. Having safety measures beforehand can significantly reduce health risks from wildfire smoke by limiting indoor exposure to harmful particles like PM2.5.   Seal Your Home The first thing you should do is close your windows, doors, and fireplace flues to prevent smoke entry. If you notice any cracks or gaps, seal them with weather stripping or tape. Make sure no area is left unattended.     Optimize HVAC Systems Set the HVAC systems to recirculate mode and close fresh air intakes. Use MERV-13 filters in HVAC systems for better filtration. However, be cautious about potential strain on older HVAC systems.   Create a Clean Room If an emergency is apparent, set up a clean room. It’s the one with minimal windows, and you shouldn't be cooking or smoking here to reduce particle exposure. For detailed guidance, refer to the EPA’s official resource: How to Create a Clean Room at Home. Moreover, keep the following in mind: Avoid Indoor Pollution: Be cautious of activities that generate indoor pollutants, such as burning candles, incense, or vacuuming without a HEPA filter. Monitor Air Quality: Use an indoor air quality monitor to track PM2.5 levels and take action if levels rise. It’s extremely important to remove wildfire smoke from your home to protect your health and keep your family safe. Learn how to remove smoke from your house next.     How to Remove Wild Smoke From Your House When wildfire smoke affects your area, improving your home's air quality is crucial. Here are some effective strategies to help clear the air and protect your family:   DIY Air Purifier: In a pinch, a DIY air purifier can be a cost-effective option. You can make one at home by securely attaching a MERV-13 filter to a fan. The EPA recommends this method only if you can't afford or find certified products. Use High-Quality Air Purifiers: For the most effective and reliable solution, invest in a high-quality air purifier. Look for models with advanced filters, such as a True HEPA filter, which can effectively capture ultrafine particles like PM2.5 found in wildfire smoke. Choose the Right Purifier: For maximum benefits, consider a high-quality air purifier like the Dreame AirPursue PM20. Its advanced filtration system is designed to capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, ensuring cleaner air. Strategic Placement: To get the best results, place your air purifier in a "clean room" or in high-traffic areas where it can have the most impact on air quality. Ventilate When Safe: If indoor air quality has improved and outdoor conditions permit, you can briefly use exhaust fans to clear any residual smoke.   If conditions permit, we recommend using a high-quality air purifier like the Dreame AirPursue PM20, which is designed to capture ultrafine particles as small as 0.3 microns with its advanced filtration system, ensuring cleaner air during wildfire events. Consider placing air purifiers in the clean room or high-traffic areas for optimal effectiveness.   Additional Wildfire Smoke Precautions for Vulnerable Groups Certain groups, like children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with heart or lung conditions, are at higher risk from wildfire smoke. It’s better to consult healthcare providers for personalized advice, especially if you suffer from asthma or heart disease. Wear NIOSH-approved N95 respirators indoors if smoke levels are high and air purifiers are unavailable, but be cautious of fit and potential breathing difficulties. Therefore, it’s better to seek cleaner air shelters, such as malls or libraries, if smoke infiltrates the home excessively.   Conclusion Wildfire smoke is imminent, so it’s important to preserve your indoor air quality during wildfires. By employing proactive strategies like sealing homes, creating clean rooms, and using air purifiers, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe. You should always be proactive, as you have already seen the increasing severity of wildfires above. Investing in a high-quality air purifier can provide peace of mind during wildfire season. Explore more wildfire safety tips on Dreame’s blog, or check out the Dreame AirPursue PM20 for cleaner indoor air.
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