Allergy season is in full effect and although it’s impossible to clean the outdoors; there are ways tips and tricks to help keep allergies under control inside your home. Whether it’s a temporary home, rental, or your permanent residence, these tips and tricks will help control indoor allergies.
Bed and bedding. Encase pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust-mite-proof covers. Wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets at least once a week. Remove, wash or cover comforters. Choose bedding made of synthetic materials.
Flooring. For intense allergies, it’s best to have hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors that are easy to vacuum and mop. However, if your home does have carpet, make sure to vacuum often and also shampoo carpets at least once a month.
Curtains and blinds. Use washable curtains made of plain cotton or synthetic fabric. Replace horizontal blinds with washable roller-type shades.
Windows. Close windows and rely on air conditioning during pollen season. Clean mold and condensation from window frames and sills.
Clutter. Remove items that collect dust, such as knickknacks, tabletop ornaments, books and magazines. Store children’s toys, games and stuffed animals in plastic bins.
Pets. Bathing pets at least twice a week may reduce the amount of allergen in the dander they shed.
Air filtration. Choose an air filter that has a small-particle or HEPA filter. Try adjusting your air filter so that it directs clean air toward your head when you sleep.
Fireplaces. Avoid use of wood-burning fireplaces or stoves because smoke and gasses can worsen respiratory allergies. Most natural gas fireplaces won’t cause this problem.
Stove. Install and use a vented exhaust fan to remove cooking fumes and reduce moisture. Most stove-top hoods simply filter cooking particulates without venting outside.
Sink. Wash dishes daily. Scrub the sink and faucets to remove mold and food debris.
Refrigerator. Wipe up excessive moisture to avoid mold growth. Discard moldy or out-of-date food. Regularly empty and clean dripping pan and clean or replace moldy rubber seals around doors.
Cabinets and counters. Clean cabinets and countertops with detergent and water. Check under-sink cabinets for plumbing leaks. Store food — including pet food — in sealed containers.
Cabinets and counters. Clean cabinets and countertops with detergent and water. Check under-sink cabinets for plumbing leaks. Store food — including pet food — in sealed containers.
Food waste. Place garbage in a can with an insect-proof lid and empty trash daily. Keeping the kitchen free of food crumbs will help reduce the chance you will have rodents or cockroaches.
Resources: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergy/art-20049365
