10 Ways To Allergy Proof Your Home

If you or a family member suffers from seasonal or year-round allergies, it might feel like there is nothing you can do to combat the problem. This is especially true when the allergens are something you can not control, like pollen, dust, and pets. It helps to know what you can do to take preventative measures, and this is made easier when it comes to allergies to certain food and medications. If your triggers are from airborne allergens, one of the best things you can do is make sure your house is as free from them as possible. Here is a handy guide of ten things you can do to get your home on the right track to a cleaner, healthier living environment.

Clear The Air

Clean air is essential for good health. Not only will it reduce your chances of suffering the symptoms of airborne allergies, ensuring the purity of the air you breath is good for the planet. Nix the chemicals, including those found in cleaners and air fresheners. They are often packed with toxic compounds and can trigger allergic reactions. Homemade solutions can be made with vinegar, and baking soda and essential oils can add a fresh scent. To circulate the air inside, open the windows, unless your allergies are related to seasonal pollen and try to avoid using a fireplace. Modern wood stoves are made to reduce air pollution inside and out, or run an air purifier to clean the air in your home.

Clean The Corners

It is common practice to exercise the out-of-sight, out-of-mind theory and that is when problems can occur. If you have a cupboard under the sink or storage space in the basement, it is a good idea to check them out every once in awhile. Take everything out to make sure there are no leaks or spills and pipes are in prime condition. Not only are these dark, damp places breeding ground for mold, but they can also attract mice, rats, and cockroaches. Seal any holes that may be letting in the annoying critters.

Mitigate Mold

Did you know there are more than 100,000 species of mold? Keeping the bathroom clean and the air circulating is the best way to make sure it is not subjected to mold growth. If mold does start to show up, tackle it as soon as you notice it by using aproduct for killing the pesky fungus. If not, it will quickly spread, get out of control, and potentially cause illness. Make sure surfaces are always dried off, replace cracked or broken tiles to avoid water seeping into walls, and maintain caulking around sinks and tubs.

From Curtains To Blinds

Many people prefer the look and ease of curtains, but for allergy sufferers, they may not be the best choice. Fabric drapes can become a target for allergens, trapping dust particles, pollen, and other airborne culprits. A better alternative is to install blindsorshades, which accomplish the same job for privacy and maintaining darkness but do not harbor as many allergy triggers. They are easier to wipe clean than drapes, but if curtains are your only option, machine wash or dry clean them often and use a vacuum brush on them regularly.

Focus On Air Filter

If you suffer from seasonal or indoor allergies, an air purifier might be a smart investment, as well as replacing the filter on your furnace. An air filter can help, but not completely eliminate, pollutants in the air and may alleviate some of your suffering. Airborne allergens land in the carpet and on furniture where they can become trapped, so the only way to get rid of those is through effective cleaning and vacuuming. An air filter will help clear the air of pollen, but it is recommended to stay away from any that produce ozone, as it can further exacerbate allergic reactions.

A Good Vacuum

A vacuum that spews dust while you are cleaning is a sure way to backfire your cleaning efforts, and will only add to the collection of dust mites and pet dander causing your allergic reactions. An investment of a good vacuum, one with a HEPA filter, will pay off in the long run in terms of your comfort and health. The filter is made with a very fine mesh through which air is forced and traps tiny particulates, including those harmful ones, as small as 0.3 microns. In comparison, an average human hair is approximately fifty to 150 microns in diameter.

Doorways

The entrance to the outside is one place allergy sufferers should pay attention to as well. The family should get into the habit of taking shoes off before entering to avoid tracking allergens all over the house, and guests should be asked to do the same. A doormat placed on the outside and inside of the doorway will prevent mud, dirt, and other messes stepped on from entering the house. Remember they do need replacing over time, as they will eventually become inhibited with allergens. It can help to mark down the last time you bought a new one and jot down when your next one should be purchased.

Scrap The Carpet

Older homes are typically covered in wall-to-wall carpet, and you can imagine how much hidden dust and allergens have been trapped in it over the years. Despite regular vacuuming and even steam cleaning, enough particulates may remain to trigger allergies. Consider replacing carpet and rugs with an alternative. There are a lot of flooring choices these days, including hardwood, laminate, tiles, and linoleum. They are all simple to clean and are modern and durable. It is an investment to increase the value of your home and keep it clear of dust and other allergens.

The Bedroom

The first place to tackle should be the bedroom. The bed is where you spend anywhere from five to eight hours per day, and the linens are an easy target for invisible allergens. Keep them laundered regularly in hot water if allergies are a problem. A mattress cover and pillow protector are also recommended. Make the bedrooms a no-go zone for pets if they contribute to your allergies. For kid’s bedrooms, keep it tidy with just the toys currently being used out front and center. The rest can be stored in totes or the in the closet and rotated for continual use. Stuffed animals tend to collect airborne allergens and should be tossed in the washing machine on a regular basis.

1. Determine Your Allergies

The first thing to do before beginning the task of allergy-proofing your home is to find out exactly what the culprit is causing your symptoms. It is best to get a proper medical diagnosis so you can take the necessary precautions and know what needs to be taken care of inside the home. The most common indoor triggers include dust, mold, pollen, and pet dander. Some of the typical reactions, like eye, nose, and throat irritations can be similar among these triggers, and you might think you have to stay away from your family pet when it is actually dust causing your discomfort.