young woman suffering from allergy while holding dust bag near vacuum cleaner
Allergy season can be a tough time for those who suffer from allergic reactions. Itchy eyes, runny noses, and sneezing can make even the most comfortable homes an uncomfortable place to live. In this blog post, we’ll discuss a few ways to keep your home clean and allergen-free during allergy season, so that you and your family can enjoy a safer, cleaner, and more comfortable living space.
Daily Dusting
Dusting your home on a daily basis can help remove allergens, dust mites, and other irritants that can trigger an allergic reaction. Use a damp cloth or microfiber duster to avoid dust and allergen particles from becoming airborne. Pay particular attention to areas that tend to accumulate dust such as window sills, baseboards, and fans.
When dusting, it is important to take other measures in order to prevent triggering any allergies. Wearing a bandana or face mask can help keep the air around you free from allergens and irritants that may be released when dusting. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter will also help capture small particles that can be released when dusting, such as pollen and pet dander. Additionally, use a gentle cleaner that is free of harsh chemicals to avoid triggering any allergies.
Regular Vacuuming
Carpets, rugs, and upholstery can harbor allergens and dust mites. Regular vacuuming, ideally twice per week, is key to minimizing the risk of allergen build-up. Make sure you use a vacuum that has a HEPA filter which captures allergens and dust mites rather than releasing them back into the air.
When it comes to vacuuming in order to reduce allergens, there are a variety of specific vacuum models to choose from. Some of the best models for those looking to keep their home allergen-free include bagless, upright vacuums with HEPA filters and dust ejection systems.
Vacuum cleaners designed for pet owners may also be beneficial, as they are designed to capture pet hair and dander specifically. It is also important to make sure that the vacuum has an adjustable setting so that it does not release any of these allergens back into the air.
Laundering Bedding and Linens Weekly
To reduce allergy symptoms, wash your bedding and linens in hot water once a week. This will help kill dust mites, pollen, and other allergens that are present on your bedding and linens. Use a fragrance-free laundry detergent to avoid any additional irritation to your skin.
One way to further reduce allergens in the home is to find allergen-friendly linens for bedding and clothing, such as dust mite-proof mattresses and pillow covers, allergy friendly fabrics, and hypoallergenic duvets and comforters. Additionally, look for clothing that is made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen which can help reduce the amount of irritants that come into contact with your skin.
Keep Your Indoor Air Clean
It’s essential to keep the air inside your home clean by improving ventilation. Keep doors open to allow fresh air to circulate, and consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter to remove allergens from the air. Also, make sure to replace air filters in your HVAC system regularly to ensure clean and fresh air in your home.
Calling an HVAC technician, such as one from Donovan & Jorgenson Heating and Cooling, for a tune-up every spring is an effective way to reduce the amount of allergens and pollen that can cause allergies. Having your system inspected by a qualified technician can help identify any problems with your system before they become bigger issues during allergy season. During the inspection, the technician will replace air filters and check for any potential issues that can lead to an increase in allergies. By having your system serviced regularly, you can ensure a safe and healthy indoor environment all year round with clean air free of allergens.
Keep Windows Closed During Allergy Season
Opening windows during allergy season can allow pollen, dust mites, and other allergens to enter your home. To reduce the amount of allergens present in your home, keep the windows closed and use air conditioning instead. You may also want to consider using a high-efficiency air filter in your AC unit to further reduce allergens in your home.
Use Air Purifiers
An air purifier can be a valuable tool in keeping your home clean and allergen-free during allergy season. It works by filtering out allergens such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores from the air. Make sure you choose an air purifier that is the right size for your home.
When choosing an air purifier for your home, it is important to consider the size of the room and whether or not you have pets. Air purifiers come in a variety of sizes, from small desktop models to large whole-home units. A smaller unit may be able to effectively clean a single room while larger units are designed for larger areas.
If you have pets, it is important to purchase an air purifier with a HEPA filter that can capture pet dander and other particles that can trigger allergies. Additionally, consider the noise level of the unit before purchasing as some models may be louder than others. With the right air purifier in place, you will be able to enjoy a cleaner and more comfortable living space all year round.
Keep Your Home Dry
Dampness and humidity can cause mold and mildew to grow, which is a common trigger for allergy symptoms. Keep indoor humidity levels below 50%. Use a dehumidifier if necessary, particularly in areas such as basements and bathrooms. For areas that are prone to dampness, such as the bathroom, make sure to run an exhaust fan to prevent moisture build-up.
Measuring the humidity in your home is an important part of keeping your living space allergen-free. There are a few different ways to measure the humidity in your home, such as using a hygrometer or humidistat. A hygrometer is a device that measures relative humidity, which is the amount of water vapor present in the air compared to how much the air can hold.
A humidistat measures both relative humidity and dew point, which is the temperature at which condensation will form on surfaces. By measuring humidity levels with either of these two devices, you can ensure that your home remains comfortable and allergen-free.
Allergy season can take a toll on your well-being, but you can take control by keeping your home clean and allergen-free. By following these five simple tips, you can minimize the risk of allergy symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable living space. Don’t let allergies take over your life this season- implement these strategies and make your home a safe haven for you and your family.
