Creating a Healthier Home for Allergy Relief

During allergy season, your home is always the place you want to escape to when you don’t want itchy eyes or a runny nose. However, if you don’t allergy-proof your home, it won’t be the escape you are looking for. Here are a few of the best tips to make that happen. 

Air Purifier

Firstly, and probably the thing you need the most in conjunction with your antihistamine or hayfever medicine, is an air purifier. In simple terms, an air purifier sucks in the surrounding, dirty, air, and releases clean air back into your space. 

Using water and filters, an air purifier can remove allergens from the air, such as pollen, mold spores, dust, etc, and will prevent them from spreading across your home. If you have severe allergies or a larger home, purchase more than one and place them in the areas that see the most foot traffic, such as the lounge, kitchen, bedrooms, etc. 

Clean, Clean, Clean

Next, you need to be sure to clean, and clean regularly. Dust, pollen, pet dander, and everything in between can make a home on your surfaces, floors, in your carpets, on your bed and couches, etc. 

Because of this, weekly cleans are a must, with deeper cleans being done at least twice a month. If you can afford it, a monthly professional clean can be exactly what you need. 

Clean in the Right Order

In addition, be sure to clean in the right order. The rule of thumb is to always dust first, and to always dust from top to bottom. This means that dust won’t float down onto areas you have already cleaned, and then you can also vacuum up the dust and extra dirt that lands on the floor. 

Look for & Remove Mold

Mold can be another issue for allergy sufferers, and can often be difficult to find, let alone remove. Therefore, going on a mold hunt should be something you do at least once a month, especially in Winter if you live in a colder country and keep your windows and doors closed for an extended period. 

Mold thrives on moisture, and therefore, your bathroom and laundry room will most likely be the places where mold forms. But mold can also form in cupboards, cabinets, and other small spaces, especially if they aren’t exposed to airflow. 

Keep Windows & Doors Closed

Speaking of your windows and doors, during allergy season, it is best to keep them closed as much as possible. In simple terms, when your windows and doors are open, you are inviting allergens into your home. 

While this is difficult when it is hot outside, it is best to invest in a fan, or leave them open when there is little to no wind, but only for a short period. 

Door Laundry Regularly 

You should also remember to do your laundry regularly, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Your clothing will collect allergens like pollen and pet dander, so it's essential to clean them as soon as possible. 

You should also try to avoid drying your clean clothes outdoors, as even the slightest breeze will simply blow pollen and other allergens right back onto your clothes. 

Use Hot Water & Dry on Hot if Possible 

When washing and using your dryer, use hot water and the hot temperature setting when possible. Hot air and hot water are more effective at killing and removing dust mites and other allergens compared to using cold water and natural drying methods. 

Remove Shoes & Change Clothes When You Get Home

Another simple tip to keep your home allergen-free is to remove your shoes at the door and change your clothes when you get home. This will stop you from walking and spreading allergens around your home, and keep them contained to a specific area. 

If you live in an apartment, you may not have an entirely separate area to put your shoes, and if this is the case, leaving them by your front door is the next best thing. 

Temperature & Humidity

With regard to dustmites and mold, the temperature and humidity in your home play a role in how much these things spread. Because of this, it is important to regulate the temperature and humidity levels as much as you can. 

For your temperature, especially in Winter, don’t make your home too warm, but rather opt for a more moderate temperature that is just enough to break the chill. For humidity, if excess moisture is something you struggle to remove, investing in a dehumidifier is a great option. 

Pets, Pet Beds & Blankets

No matter how much you clean or how many precautions you take, your furry little friends can easily be the reason why your house is still filled with allergens. Their fur can trap allergens, and when they get inside and run about, lie on the couch, etc, it can be spread in no time. 

Because of this, you should also be sure to give your pets and their beds and blankets regular washes. It is not something we always consider when it comes to allergen-prevention, but many would be surprised at just how efficient cats and dogs are at spreading allergens around your home.

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