Tips to Allergy-Proof your Home

allergies__1460040180_162.206.228.38Spring brings many wonderful things but one not-so-fabulous part of spring is allergies.  Over 20% of people suffer from one sort of allergy or another.  Between pollen, ragweed, pet dander, mold, mildew and dust particles, spring can be a real sneezey, coughy, watery eyed, sore throat, itchy season for many of us.  Help reduce your tendency for allergy symptoms with these tips to allergy-proof your home:

Avoid Allergen Traps

Bedding, drapery and carpet are three of the largest areas where dust, dander and pollen get trapped.  When allergens are literally covering you when you sleep or thriving beneath your feet every day, you will surely continue to suffer from symptoms.  You can help get rid of some of these allergy culprits by eliminating spaces where they reside.  Here’s how:

  • Shield your mattress, box spring and pillow cases in allergy-proof covers.
  • Put away the winter comforter and use a lighter quilt and sheets.  Wash them often.
  • Replace carpeting with wood, tile or other flooring that won’t attract allergens and can be wiped clean easily.
  • Wash rugs regularly.
  • Use shades or blinds instead of fabric curtains that collect allergens.
  • Select wood, leather or other materials for your furniture rather than fabric.
  • Keep pets in spaces that are less likely to trap dander.  Especially keep them out of bedrooms of family members who suffer from allergies.
  • Ask family members and guests to thoroughly wipe their feet before entering your home. Or better yet, have everyone remove their shoes before entering.

Protect Your Air Space

Beyond surfaces that trap allergies, many allergens are airborne.  Keep these strategies in mind so your air space remains as clean as possible:

  • Keep windows and doors shut during high pollen season.
  • Don’t use fans because they can blow around allergens from surfaces.
  • Change your air filters regularly.
  • Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter that will collect more allergens and not blow particles back into your home.
  • Wear a face mask when cleaning to avoid breathing in allergens.

Bust through the Mold & Mildew

Mold and mildew are other common allergens that can affect people in their homes.  Don’t let these creepy multipliers cause you to suffer by employing these tips:

  • Use a mold and mildew-fighting cleaning solvent in bathrooms and your kitchen.
  • Place dehumidifiers around your home, especially in your basement.
  • Fix leaks and cracks immediately to avoid standing water in your home.
  • Never leave wet clothes in the washer as they can quickly grow moldy.
  • Turn on exhaust fans in bathrooms and your kitchen to eliminate moisture from the air.
  • Limit the number of indoor plants you have in your home as their soil can become moldy.

While you can’t avoid all allergens, you can use these tips to allergy-proof your home, reduce your allergy symptoms and enjoy spring again.

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