If you suffer from allergies, you’ll know how unpleasant it can be. After all, no one likes taking drowsy antihistamines and dreading the pollen-filled springtime air. While it’s common to believe that allergies only exist outdoors, you might be surprised to find out that your home may be filled with allergy-causing substances.
Indoor allergens can affect both the eyes and nasal passages. Common culprits include mold and mildew, dust mites, cockroach droppings and pet dander. Even pollens from trees and the grass can sneak into the home, too, as can the spores from outdoor mold. These irritants can cause symptoms such as a stuffy head, streaming or itchy eyes and a scratchy throat.
To help reduce allergens around the home, check out these tips. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your lifestyle or if your symptoms worsen.
- Dust with a wet cloth – Dusting with a dry duster will just shift the dust onto another surface. Use a damp or treated cloth that attracts dust rather than scattering it, and consider wearing a dust mask when cleaning.
- Wash away allergens – Dust mites tend to thrive in bedding, pillows and throws. At least once a week, wash bedding, soft furniture coverings and blankets in very hot water and dry them in a hot dryer to kill dust mites.
- Opt for green cleaning products – Many harsh chemicals found in common household cleaners can aggravate symptoms in allergy sufferers. Switch to green, environmentally friendly cleaning products, which have natural and plant-based ingredients. You can also make your own natural products using ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda and lemon.
- Reduce pet dander – Vacuum the house frequently and wash pet bedding separately to your own belongings. Brush your pet outside often to get rid of excess hair, too.
- Prevent mold and mildew – Run an exhaust fan after taking a bath or shower, and towel-dry the shower or bathtub itself. Take time to scrub away mold from tiles and bathroom surfaces and clean shower curtains in hot water.
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