Are lower test scores something you can breathe in? In 2016, a controlled study examined the role air quality plays in our daily cognitive functioning. They set up two offices—a “Green” building with low airborne pollution levels and a “Conventional” building with higher airborne pollution levels. During six full workdays, they studied the effects different concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide, and general ventilation had on workers’ cognitive scores.  

The conclusion found that the Green building workers scored up to 101% higher than the Conventional building workers, shocking everyone with the dramatic impact clean air can have on focus and cognitive clarity. 

So how can airborne pollution affect our cognitive clarity? Consistently bad air quality can trigger allergy symptoms, distracting us with congestion, coughing, and itchy skin. It can even lead to increased neuroinflammation, which can impact our mood and motivation levels.  

Whether you're setting up your dorm room or creating an at-home study space, it’s important to prep your environment for success. One of the easiest ways to keep your space fresh is with our favorite duo: an air purifier and humidifier. An air purifier removes unwanted airborne contaminants, while a humidifier puts moisture back into your air, helping to reduce congestion and cold symptoms. 

Our Favorite Picks 

Levoit Classic 300S Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier 

Worried about cold and flu season? Indoor humidity helps keep your airways clear, providing moisture which can help thin mucus and congestion. With up to 60 hours of runtime, the Classic 300S provides continuous mist day and night. Control settings from anywhere with the free VeSync app, as well as create schedules, set timers, and receive real-time humidity notifications. With an effective range of up to 215–505 ft², it can easily humidify a large dorm room or office space, while the top-fill design allows you to pour water directly into the tank without flipping anything over.  

Levoit Core® Mini Air Purifier 

Perfect for cozy dorm rooms, the Core Mini can sit on a desk without taking up much space. With 3-stage filtration, it uses a Pre-Filter, Personal HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter to filter at least 97% of airborne particles 0.3 microns in size, such as pollen, dust, smoke particles, and pet dander. Add essential oils to the aroma pad, so you can enjoy your favorite fragrances while tackling school assignments. With 3 fan speeds and a Check Filter Indicator, the Core Mini packs a lot of convenience into one cute design. 

Levoit Core® 200S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier 

Remove typical dorm room contaminants, such as dust, VOCs from cleaning supplies, and odors, from your study space with 3-stage filtration. Trapping at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 microns in size using H13 True HEPA filtration, the Core 200S helps keep sneeze and cough-causing allergens at bay. Use the free VeSync app to control settings, create schedules, set timers, and monitor air quality and filter life, all from your phone. This air purifier is ideal for 183 ft² rooms and runs with noise levels as low as 24dB, ensuring a fresh and quiet environment. 

Levoit Core® 300S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier 

Featuring smart control and powerful filtration, the Core 300S uses 3-stage H13 True HEPA filtration to trap at least 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 microns in size, including dust, smoke particles, pet dander, and pollen, as well as odors and VOCs from cleaning supplies. Control settings, create schedules, set timers, and monitor air quality and filter life, no matter where you are with the free VeSync app. This air purifier is great for 219 ft² rooms, providing a steady source of fresh air while you tackle homework and fun projects. With noise levels as low as 22dB, you can rest easy, knowing the Core 300S has your back. 

Sources: 

Allen JG, et al. (2016). Associations of cognitive function scores with carbon dioxide, ventilation, and volatile organic compound exposures in office workers: A controlled exposure study of green and conventional office environments. DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1510037