By Brooke Chaplan
If you or someone you love has allergies, you know what misery they can be. It’s bad enough to contend with pollen and other outdoor allergens on their own turf; it’s even worse when an allergy sufferer can’t find relief from the itchy effects of allergens in their own home.
Managing the stuff that triggers most allergies in the home isn’t all that difficult if you know what you’re doing. Here’s some excellent advice about how to wage combat against some of worst household allergens.
Ditch the rugs and say goodbye to the shag
Rugs and carpets are probably the biggest offenders as far as being a safe harbor for allergens is concerned. If you can take your floors down to beautiful bare wood, do it. Smooth surfaces such as wood and tile are easy to keep clean and free of pet dander, dust mites and other allergy inducers. If you absolutely must have carpets, select a low-pile Berber and clean it daily with a small particle HEPA-filtered vacuum.
Go unscented all the way
Perfume, incense and highly-scented household cleaners are apt to trigger allergic episodes in sensitive people. Fortunately, many makers of soap, laundry detergent and other household necessaries now offer non-scented versions of their most popular products. If you prefer to go the all-natural route, use a solution of clear water and white vinegar as an effective household cleanser. Sinks and bathtubs may be effectively cleaned with baking soda in lieu of harsh powdered abrasives.
Out with the bad air
Make sure your home is being properly ventilated. When the air in your home is flowing freely, you’ll be able to get more allergens out of the main rooms. East Side Ventilation recommends you change your air filters every few months and as you do, check the amount of dirt and debris you collect. Whether you live in New Mexico or Winnipeg, your heating and air conditioning units should be cleaned and properly maintained in all seasons.
Avoid wood-burning stoves and fireplaces
As cozy and romantic as they are, wood-burning fireplaces and stoves create a lot of smoke and gases that can exacerbate allergies and trigger respiratory reactions. If you do have a stove you can limit the effects by storing the wood out in the garage, and covering it when you bring it in. Most fireplaces that use natural gas and ceramic logs are not a problem for those with allergies.
Keep pets out of the bedroom
Yes, we all love our furry family members, but that shouldn’t mean they rule the roost. The dander and hair they can’t help shedding is known to cause allergy attacks in many people. Pet your pooch in other rooms, and remember to wash your hands afterward. Try washing them once or twice a week and be sure to brush their fur often. You can limit the allergens that are released when they have a clean coat.
Many people with allergies can learn to live happily in their homes as long as they follow a few common-sense rules of allergen combat. Keep these tips in mind as you make your home more allergy proof.
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