You may not realize it, but the quality of air inside your home can make your allergies worse. If you’re sneezing a lot more constantly at home, you may blame dust and dander. While these are the most common culprits, a few other things in your abode that can also make you sneeze and trigger allergies.
Here are the common sources of allergens in your home:
- Pet (dander)
- Soft or stuffed toys
- Drafty windows
- Indoor plants and flowers
- Upholstered furniture and bedding
- Carpet (especially wall-to-wall carpeting)
- Indoor molds
- Cockroach droppings
Here are some of the things you can do to reduce allergens at home, as well as improve air quality indoors:
Use the right dusting tools
When dusting indoor surfaces, use microfiber cloths instead of regular ones. These trap dust and other particles instead of just moving them around or releasing them into the air. An electrostatic cloth is also a good option, especially in attracting fine dust particles. Avoid using feather dusters, as they don’t work and are ineffective.
Have your air ducts checked and cleaned
Dirt, dust, and other allergens can accumulate in your HVAC system over time. This only makes it important to have a pro inspect and clean your ducts. Air duct cleaners note that doing so can improve indoor air quality and boost your HVAC’s system efficiency.
Allergy-proof your bedding
Protect pillows and mattresses using dust mite covers. Also, make sure to wash your bedding regularly in hot water and vacuum the bedroom floors at least once or twice a week. Hypoallergenic pillows, mattress covers, and eco-foam mattresses are also worth considering to control dust mites.
Prevent or limit the amount of pollen getting inside
Make sure to keep your windows and doors closed to prevent pollen from entering your home. It is also advisable to use an air conditioner during hot seasons to reduce humidity and control dust mites. Don’t forget to change your filters regularly.
Consider HEPA filters
These air filters are great in freeing your indoor air of dust and other pollutants. They can remove even the smallest airborne particles and improve the quality of your air indoors. It is a good idea to invest in a HEPA filter at home if you’re a pet owner, new parent, or if you or your family members have asthma.
Avoid indoor molds
Indoor molds are commonly found in the kitchen, bathroom, basement, and any areas with water. You can reduce mold by using a dehumidifier, repairing leaks, and ventilating the bathroom before, during, and after running the shower. Be sure to clean molds immediately if you seem them on a surface.
Control pet allergens
If you’re allergic to animal dander, it is best not to have pets with fur or feather. If you, however, already have such pets, keep them out of the bedroom. Bathing and grooming your pets can help reduce allergy symptoms.
Control pests
Use baits and traps from hardware stores to control mice and cockroaches. Be sure not to leave food containers or trashcans uncovered, as they can attract pests. Also, block all areas where roaches and mice can enter the home.
Don’t let dust and other allergens make you sneeze a lot at home. Keep the things mentioned above in mind to have an allergen-free home. You can also benefit from proper cleaning and contacting experts like air duct cleaners to control indoor air allergens.
