The misery of seasonal allergies is all too familiar for many of us in Kentuckiana. Itchy eyes, a runny nose, and constant sneezing can irritate even the most patient person.
Below are a few practical steps to reduce your exposure to allergens and get some relief by keeping allergens out of your home.
Keep your windows closed as much as possible, especially during high pollen days
Keeping your windows closed during high pollen days is essential in fighting seasonal allergies. By closing your windows, you help keep the pollen out of your home and reduce exposure to it. Sure, getting some fresh air into the home might be nice, but when it comes to avoiding sneezing fits, stuffed-up noses, and red, itchy eyes, keeping the windows shut is preferable! You could be helping others fight their seasonal allergies by not causing more pollen to circulate with open windows. So keep those windows closed during high pollen days – you’ll thank yourself later!
Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to trap allergens
Everyone wants to breathe easily in their home, free from allergens, dust, and pet dander. A great way to ensure indoor air quality stays high is to vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter machine. HEPA filters trap these irritants, so they don’t get released back into the air.
Break out the vacuum every week or two, and rest assured that the air in your home is good quality!
Dust with a damp cloth instead of a dry one to prevent allergens from becoming airborne
Dusting with a dry cloth might feel more efficient, but if you’re concerned about household allergens like dust mites or pet dander, it’s best to grab the damp cloth instead. A dry cloth can kick up the particles, sending them airborne and potentially causing allergic flare-ups and discomfort.
Going over furniture and surfaces with a wet cloth will help trap allergens in the cloth so they can be thrown away instead of left hanging around the house. You’ll also get the bonus of a shiny and clean surface in your home!
Don’t forget to clean carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture
Keep carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture clean! These beautiful pieces in your living room can get dusty over time. A good rule is to vacuum your carpets at least once a week and even more frequently if you have pets or kids. Vacuuming removes dirt and dust.
Upholstered furniture will also need regular cleaning – think spot-treating stains as soon as they happen and using gentle products that won’t damage the upholstery fabric. For those rugs in high-traffic areas of the home, give them a deep clean every six months or so for optimal upkeep. So pay attention to these essential items when cleaning; a little maintenance can go a long way in keeping your home looking great!
Keep pets clean and groomed to avoid them tracking in pollen and other allergens
Keeping your pets clean and groomed is essential for many reasons. One of the most significant might be that it can help to keep pollen and other allergens from entering your home. Grooming helps keep their coat in good condition, reducing the amount of shedding that contributes to pet dander buildup, another source of allergens. This means a more comfortable indoor environment for you and your furry friends.
Consider a whole home air purifier/sanitizer for protection against volatile organic contaminants
The air inside our homes can contain many volatile organic contaminants that can cause asthma, respiratory problems, loss of sleep, and general discomfort. A whole home air purifier/sanitizer is a great way to help protect yourself and your family from these harmful substances. Whole home Air purifiers/sanitizers can absorb or eradicate particles in the air and filter out allergens like pollen and dust mites, making it easier to breathe inside the house. Plus, you’ll be surprised how much cleaner the room feels after using one; you won’t just feel healthier but also create a cleaner environment inside your home.
For those with more severe allergies, consider having a professional air quality test your home for allergens and other contaminants to ensure your house is free from potential irritants.
Contact our team for more information on improving your home’s indoor air quality.
