A day for air purifiers

Air Purifier Day 空気清浄機の日 (kuuki seijouki no hi) is observed every year on January 19th in Japan. The anniversary was established in 2006 by the Japan Electrical Manufacturers’ Association (JEMA), headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo. The date is based on a wordplay: “1 (i) – 1 (i) – 9 (ku)” → “ii kuuki”, meaning “good air.” The purpose of the day is to raise awareness about air purifiers and promote their correct usage.

Another reason why the date was chosen is because we are coming up to hayfever season when pollen levels increase and demand for air purifiers increase. The prices tend to go up in season, so it is a good reminder to buy an air purifier slightly before season and hopefully secure a better price.

Air purifiers, also known as air cleaners, remove airborne particles, mostly dust, pollen, and pet dander, using filters and fans. Some modern models use high-voltage discharge or ionization to trap particles more effectively. However, for the machines to be most effective, they need to be clean. So this day also serves as a good reminder to clean your air purifier.