As freezing temperatures blanket large parts of the United States, a surprising home trend is gaining traction: house burping, a practice that involves opening windows to let fresh air circulate indoors, even during winter. Far from being discouraged by the cold, more homeowners are embracing this method for its potential benefits to indoor air quality and overall health.
House burping is inspired by a long-standing German practice known as lüften, which translates to “airing out.” In Germany, ventilating homes multiple times a day is considered a routine habit rather than a trend. According to reports, some German rental agreements even require tenants to open windows several times daily to reduce moisture and prevent structural damage caused by mold.
Air quality expert Tony Abate, chief technology officer at AtmosAir Solutions, explained that allowing fresh outdoor air into the home helps dilute indoor pollutants. These include carbon dioxide, airborne contaminants, and excess humidity that can accumulate in closed environments. Abate noted that this simple action can significantly improve indoor air conditions, particularly important given that Americans spend roughly 90% of their time indoors, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The trend has also gained visibility through social media. Lucie Rauschnabel, who was raised in New York by German parents, shared in a 2024 TikTok video that lüften was a normal part of her upbringing. She explained that her parents find it amusing that a deeply ingrained cultural habit is now being rediscovered as a wellness trend in the United States.
Experts suggest that there are optimal times for house burping, including early in the morning, after showering or cooking, and following social gatherings. These activities tend to increase indoor humidity and pollutant levels, making ventilation especially beneficial.
