Allergy Proof Your Home

Moist and humid homes are a magnet for allergens. In the comfort of your bed and sofa, in your kitchen cupboard or in the bathroom you will find many uninvited guests whose only sign of presence can be the severe allergies left behind. If you are faced with sneezing continuously with runny nose and itchy eyes then a simple visit to the doctors won’t help much. As the root cause of your problem may be in your house itself. It doesn’t take much to make your house allergy friendly. Throw in some moist and damp places and some clutter and you would have a zoo of allergens, ready to make you sneeze your head off. However, through proper measures they can be controlled to a great extent. In case your home attracts allergens like a magnet then it’s time you did some allergy proofing of your own. Check out tips to allergy proof your house.

Allergens:  Ragweed, pollen, and dust mites.

These allergens cause sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes. They also trigger various allergic reactions.

AC filters the air and also dehumidifies the house. Use those AC’s that keep the humidity to about 40 %. It is always better to regularly monitor the humidity of the house. Change or clean the AC filter, if possible on a monthly basis. This is because the filter becomes clogged which then cannot prevent the allergens from coming in. Add a air purifier in the bedroom and living rooms or any other rooms where you spend a lot of time. The air purifier will drive the allergens away. It is always better to use the air purifiers that have HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) technology. Also take care not to accumulate clutter.

Allergens: Dust mites

Dust mites affect each and every household and are one of the main causes of allergies.

Wash the bed sheets and carpets regularly in water that is at least 130 degrees F. Dust and sun dry the beddings, pillows and cushions. You can also wrap the mattresses.

 

Allergens: Dust mites and dander.

Dander or dried skin flakes of pets also cause severe allergic reactions. Even the saliva and urine of dogs and cats can be infested with allergens.

Use powerful vacuum to clean the entire room. This will effectively remove the furs and dander. Also give your pets a regular bath and also don’t encourage them to climb on the beds.

 

Allergens: Mold

Molds grow in all the places that are warm and humid and bathrooms present the most effective feature for mold growth. The mold spores circulate in the air which results in severe allergies.

Don’t let water accumulate in corners. Scrub the wet surface with bleach or phenyl. Always use an exhaust fan while showering. It is better to have the bathroom floors in either tiles or marble as these are easy to clean. If you find mildews on the walls then scrub using chlorine bleach solution.

Allergens: Cockroaches and mice

The droppings of cockroaches and mice contain allergens that can worsen asthma.

Clean the kitchen thoroughly so that you do not leave any crumbs to gather. Keep all the food sealed in tight jars and do not leave unwashed dishes in the sink. Block all the holes and crevices from where the pests can enter.