What should I do at home during haze?

Keep windows and doors closed when PM2.5 is above 55 µg/m³, run a HEPA purifier or air-conditioning on recirculate, and avoid frying, incense and candles.

What is PM2.5 and why does it matter?

PM2.5 is airborne particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres, measured in micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³). They are small enough to be breathed deep into the lungs, and wildfire smoke is rich in them.

Drying laundry outdoors in haze

When PM2.5 is above about 100 µg/m³ dry clothes indoors or in a dryer, because smoke particles settle on fabric and carry the smell. Below that, outdoor drying is fine.

Singapore now · as at 10:00 SGT

100 µg/m³ · Elevated (1-hour PM2.5, NEA official, worst region)

OK to dry outside.

Check your area →

What to do at each level

By 1-hour PM2.5 (µg/m³) band
Band	Healthy adults	Vulnerable people
Normal 0–55	OK to dry outside.	OK to dry outside.
Elevated 56–150	OK to dry outside.	OK to dry outside.
High 151–250	Smoke settles on fabric — dry indoors or in the dryer.	Smoke settles on fabric — dry indoors or in the dryer.
Very High ≥251	Smoke settles on fabric — dry indoors or in the dryer.	Smoke settles on fabric — dry indoors or in the dryer.

Basis: General precaution, not a NEA rule.

Why it matters

Fabric holds smoke particles and odour. Drying outdoors in heavy haze can leave clothes smelling of smoke and put particles on skin.

Practical options

Use a dryer, a dehumidifier, or an airing rack in a room with windows closed. Re-wash items left outside during a bad spell if they smell of smoke.

Steps

Check the 1-hour PM2.5.
Above about 100: dry indoors or in a dryer.
Below that: outdoor drying is fine.

Sources

NEA 1-hour PM2.5 readings (Singapore) — National Environment Agency (NEA), Singapore · official site · API / docs

More guides

Sports training and matches in haze · Running and cycling in haze · Children, school PE and recess in haze · Commuting and masks in haze · Windows, purifiers and indoor air during haze · Outdoor dining and events during haze · Pets in haze

General information, not medical advice. Follow your doctor and your school, league or organiser's final call. Data come from official sources; see data sources.