How to Prevent Allergies in the Home

Millions of people suffer from allergies of every type and severity. There are food allergies, dust allergies, environment allergies and many more. Runny nose, headaches, itchy eyes, wheezing, rash and a multitude of other symptoms are associated with allergic reactions.

Preventative medications can ease allergy symptoms as can avoiding the allergens, however, without living in a bubble that is not always possible. There are many steps that can be taken to aid in reducing allergy symptoms in the home and providing relief from allergy attacks.

Cleanliness

Cleanliness is next to Godliness as the saying goes. In the case of allergies, cleanliness is the key to comfort. A clean, dust free house means less allergic reactions. Many allergic reactions are due to dust, dirt and animal dander or fur. Dust and vacuum the floors, carpets and furniture weekly, or daily if necessary. This is especially true if there are animals in the house. Be sure to get under furniture, behind picture frames and anywhere else dust might hide.

Air Filters

Change the air filters in the heating and air conditioning system on a regular basis. If possible use filters made especially for people with allergies. Check the filters often as they may accumulate dust more often at some times than others.

Beds

Beds and pillows need special attention. Mattresses should be turned on a regular basis and cleaned using a steam machine. The steam will kill any germs or mites that can lurk in mattresses.

Linens should be changed frequently. Blankets and quilts should be washed often. All bed clothes should be washed in the hottest water possible to kill any lurking mites.

Pillows should be steamed as well. If possible, purchase hypoallergenic pillows. Dust underneath the bed and along the bed rails weekly or more.

Pets

Pet dander is a huge factor in allergies. If a pet is going to live in the house, try to get one that is considered hypoallergenic. While this does not guarantee that there will not be a reaction, it does lessen the chances.

Plants

Plants and flowers should be outdoors or contained in specific areas of the house where they do not affect the person with allergies. Just like everything else in the house, plants can accumulate dust and must be cleaned regularly along with the rest of the house.

Windows and Doors

Keep windows and doors closed to prevent pollen and other allergens from getting inside, especially during spring months when the wind is blowing and pollen is peaking.

No Smoking

Smoking irritates allergies and can cause asthma attacks. Don’t allow smoking in the house when guests must smoke ask them to go outside, away from the house and windows.

Vacuum Cleaners

Vacuum cleaners are necessary to keep the floors clean, but unless they use a HEPA filter they are sending allergens back into the air as they clean the floor. Make sure the vacuum cleaner used has a HEPA filter.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and any step taken to prevent allergic reactions is a step in the right direction. Keeping the home as clean as possible will help keep allergies at bay.