For millions of people, allergies can be a source of misery, especially in their own homes. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are the 6th leading cause of chronic illness in the United States.
While it may be impossible to rid your home of all allergens completely, there are steps you can take to reduce the number of allergens that may be present in your home, and thus improve your home’s comfort, health, and air quality. In this comprehensive guide, we will go over some of the most effective ways to protect your home from allergies.
Step One: Keep Your Home Clean and Tidy
The first and perhaps most important step in protecting your home from allergies is to keep it clean and tidy.
Not only will this help to reduce the number of allergens present in your home, but it will also help to keep your home free of dust and other particles that can trigger allergies.
Step Two: Keep Your Home Dry and Dehumidified
Another important step in protecting your home from allergies is to keep it dry and dehumidified.
Allergens such as mold and dust mites can thrive in moist environments, so reducing the humidity in your home can help to keep these allergens under control.
Step Three: Use Air Purifiers and Filters
In addition to keeping your home clean and dry, using air purifiers and filters can also be an effective way to reduce the number of allergens present in your home.
These devices work by trapping allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander, and preventing them from circulating in the air.
Step Four: Choose Your Furnishings Wisely
The furnishings you choose for your home can also have a big impact on your allergies.
For example, choosing furnishings made from materials like leather, vinyl, or wood can be better for your allergies than choosing furnishings made from fabric, which can be a breeding ground for dust mites.
Step Five: Keep Your Pets Clean and Groomed
If you have pets, it is important to keep them clean and groomed in order to reduce the amount of pet dander present in your home. Regularly bathing and brushing your pets can help to remove pet dander and other allergens from their fur.
Step Six: Eliminate Pest Infestations
Pests such as mice, cockroaches, and other insects can also be a source of allergens in your home.
Eliminating pest infestations can help to reduce the number of allergens present in your home, as well as improve your home’s overall cleanliness and comfort.
Step Seven: Choose Your Cleaning Products Carefully
The cleaning products you choose can also have an impact on your allergies.
Some cleaning products can contain harsh chemicals that can exacerbate allergies, so choosing natural, non-toxic cleaning products can be a better option for those with allergies.
Step Eight: Seal Your Home
Sealing your home can also help to reduce the number of allergens present in your home.
This includes sealing up any cracks or gaps in your home’s walls or foundation, as well as using weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent allergens from entering your home.
Step Nine: Use Hypoallergenic Bedding
Your bedding can also be a source of allergens. Using hypoallergenic bedding can help to reduce the number of allergens present in your bed, and thus improve your quality of sleep and overall comfort.
Step Ten: Get Professional Help
Finally, if you are struggling with allergies in your home, it may be time to seek professional help. An allergist can help you to identify the source of your allergies and provide you with treatment options to help alleviate your symptoms.
A professional cleaning service can also help to deep clean your home and remove allergens that may be lurking in hard-to-reach places.
Conclusion
Protecting your home from allergies is an important task that can greatly improve the overall health, comfort, and air quality of your home.
By following these ten steps, you can reduce the number of allergens present in your home and create a safe, healthy space for you and your family to live in.