The Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA) said that over 20 percent of the American population experience allergy symptoms. People who have allergy or asthma symptoms should be wary about sources of allergens at home. The toxins coming from allergens could trigger or exacerbate allergy and asthma symptoms. For those with serious allergy problems, this could lead to fatal consequences. This is why making your home allergy-free should be a top priority.
Here are five ways you can make your home allergy free:
Dust Regularly
Letting dust accumulate could cause allergens to grow. Dust the furniture, television, shelves, cabinets, and every nook and corner that attracts dust.
To get rid of dust from bedding and bed, wash the blankets and pillow cases regularly. Use dust-proof covers on box springs, mattresses and bed pillows. Do not use feathered or wool fabrics as these accumulate dust quickly. Use synthetic materials instead.
Keep the Floor Clean
If you have floor carpet, make sure you vacuum it frequently, at least once or twice a week. Better still, shampoo the carpet on a regular basis. Use a vacuum with HEPA filter. This type of filter can trap minute particles as little as 0.3 microns and does not send dust into the air. This helps get rid of most allergens.
Change Air Filters Regularly
Change the air filters in your air conditioner and heating system at least once a month. Also, make sure that your house does not get too hot or humid as this can cause the propagation of molds and dust mites. Temperature within the house should be between 68 F and 72 F.
Remove Molds
There are more than 100,000 species of molds. Molds tend to grow on wet and humid places. They are mostly found in the bathroom. Cleaning the bathroom regularly will help minimize the presence of mold.
Also, check the roofs, ceilings and water pipes for leaking. Molds could thrive in those places too. Remove molds with a bleach solution.
Eliminate Pests
Bugs can cause allergies too. Cockroach droppings contain protein that can trigger allergic reactions. Hire a professional exterminator to ensure that you got rid of all cockroaches and other pests in your house. Pests are also attracted to trash particularly food that you throw away. Use an insect-proof lid. Throw away trash bags daily.
To make your house allergy free, the rule of thumb is to keep your house clean. Do not let dust or molds accumulate. Regular cleaning can get rid of allergy inducing particles and bugs.