Millions of people all over the world suffer from allergies triggered by indoor allergens such as dust mites, mould and pet dander. Research shows that every other home contains at least six allergens that can induce allergy symptoms. And, even though there’s no way to completely remove them from your home, there are things you can do to reduce their number and prevent them from getting inside in the first place. Check out these tips that will certainly help you during the allergy period.
Get rid of dust
Dust mites are one of the most common allergy and asthma triggers in the home and they simply thrive in dusty places. If you want to deal with dust mites and relieve your symptoms, you have to get rid of the dust the smart way. Dry dusting can only make your allergy worse because you’re constantly releasing dust particles into the air. Instead, use a damp cloth that will make dust stick to it and consider wearing a mask while cleaning. Additionally, try to keep your home as tidy and clutter-free as possible.
Dry your clothes inside
Even though drying your laundry in the sun gives it that fresh feeling, avoid it, especially during the allergy period. Pollen and mould can stick to your laundry and you’ll take them inside once your clothes are dry. It’s better to use a dryer or hang dry your clothes inside.
Keep the pollen outside
Another way of preventing allergens from entering your home is to keep windows and doors closed. You can also change your clothes, dump them in the laundry and take a shower when you come home. This way, you’ll get rid of all the pollen that stuck to your clothes and skin.
Use the right vacuum
The best way to remove allergens from your carpets and furniture is to use a strong anti-allergenic vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. They are designed to keep dust and allergens inside the container and instead of kicking them into the air.
Use natural cleaning products
Even though cleaning products can’t trigger allergies directly, they can make them worse by further irritating your nose. Symptoms of irritation are usually sneezing, wheezing, skin rashes, itchy eyes and congestion. However, using fragrance-free and natural cleaning products won’t worsen irritation and inflammation while it can still clean your home and keep it allergen-free.
Take care of your mattress
Your bed is the perfect environment for all sorts of allergens, such as dust mites, dead skin cells and germs. They penetrate your mattress even if you wash your linen regularly, so make sure to get allergy covers on your mattress, pillows, and duvets that can stop dust mites from nesting in your bed. This way you’ll be able to kill all pests during the laundry process. Wash your sheets at high temperatures (at least 60 degrees C) to kill all the mitesAlso, so make sure to regularly replace your mattresses. If your mattress is older than 10 years, it might be the time to get rid of it and invest in a new one. Opt for a latex mattress that is made from 100% natural rubber that is free from any harmful substances and is naturally dust-mite-resistant, antifungal and antibacterial.
Clean mould from your bathroom
Many people who suffer from allergies are allergic to mould, and if you’re one of them, make sure your bathroom is always mould-free. However, since mould triggers allergies, cleaning it without experiencing symptoms can be a bit tricky. The best way to clean it is to use spray-based products. Simply spray all mouldy areas, leave it for 15 minutes and then rinse the mould with the shower. You can make a solution of 10% bleach for cleaning. This will be strong enough to kill mould, but gentle enough not to trigger your allergies.
Give your pet a bath
Pets are another common allergy trigger. No one’s actually allergic to the animal itself, but proteins in their saliva, urine and dander can trigger symptoms in people who are sensitive. However, you can still live in harmony with your furry friend. You can give your pet a bath once a week and frequently vacuum your home. Another great preventive measure is to make pet-free zones around your home. For instance, keep your pet off your furniture and out of your bedroom.
As you can see, regular cleaning with an anti-allergenic vacuum and a few preventive steps are all you need to keep your indoor allergies at bay and get through the allergy season smoothly and painlessly.
