Make Home A Sanctuary to Reduce Allergy Symptoms
Many people experience respiratory ailments like hay fever from exposure to molds and dust mites, some without even knowing the source of their symptoms. Asthma can result from prolonged exposure to these allergens. To limit health problems, it’s wise to make your home environment as allergen-free as possible.
Dust mites thrive in many areas of the typical home, so it’s important to control the amount of dust that accumulates. Carpeting and upholstered furniture are two common dust collectors. For those with serious allergies, removing the carpet is highly recommended. Clothes also attract dust, so confining them to closets and using protective covers for items that get infrequent use can help control mites.
Fabrics are great places for dust mites to hide. Replace drapes with blinds where possible, and be sure that your mattress. box springs and pillows are tightly enclosed in a covering that resists mites. Bedding and throw rugs should be laundered weekly in hot water. Clean furniture, walls and floors with a damp cloth. A vacuum with HEPA filter is the most effective in dealing with mites. HEPA room purifiers can also be effective in removing allergens.
In the bedroom, your nightly retreat, serious effort is required to minimize mites. Use the precautions mentioned above, but also take out any surfaces and items where mites can live. If you do it correctly, you will end up with Spartan decor. After you’ve been strict in reducing bedroom furnishings, give what’s left a good cleaning.
Pets can contribute to the dust problem, and many people with mite allergies react to dogs or cats. If you can’t give up your pet, at least keep it out of the bedroom.
Dust and high humidity are ideal conditions for both mites and mold. Keep your home both clean and dry so they don’t have a chance to thrive. For moisture control, start with the basics. Be sure your home’s outer barrier is properly functioning to avoid leaks in the basement, windows or roof. Inspect all areas at least semi-annually for any signs of deterioration or water intrusion. Keep gutters free of debris that might send water into the building envelope. All water coming off the building should drain away from it without experiencing obstructions.
Living areas and any crawl space must be well ventilated. Moisture-producing appliances such as clothes dryers should be properly vented. In the bathroom, a good ventilation fan should pull out the moisture, but open the window if necessary to get everything dry. The range hood fan in the kitchen needs to be of a size that will exhaust cooking moisture without drawing air from other parts of the building.
If necessary, incorporate dehumidifiers in problem areas. Also watch for any signs of plumbing leaks, such as sounds of constantly running water or unusual moisture conditions.
Because mold can thrive in soapy scum, clean all sink areas, showers and tubs frequently. At the first sign of mold, deal with it. Replace shower curtains with any mold spores showing, and clean off black mold around windows with soap and disinfectant.
Allergy symptoms can be reduced by being proactive. Extra effort and sacrifice in decor options are required, but the tradeoff is better home sanctuary and improved health.
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