Spring is right around the corner; this means that trees will begin to bear their buds and flowers will start to color the surroundings. While spring is a favorite season for many, there are some who can’t help but worry because spring season can also mean worsening allergy symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 8% of American adults (20 million) and over 7% of children (6 million) experience seasonal allergies. They can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as nasal congestion and itchy eyes. They can also cause complications like sinus infections and asthma attacks
Allergies may be tough to beat, however, there are different ways you can prepare yourself as well as your home against it. Below are 6 ways you can allergy-proof your home and enjoy spring more.
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Improve indoor quality
One thing that could trigger allergy attacks is poor air quality. Improving the indoor air quality is essential in keeping your home safe from allergens. You can start by changing the air filters of your air-conditioning unit. Do this regularly as part of your regular maintenance and make sure to keep windows and doors closed too during the pollen season.
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Set up a cleaning routine weekly
The best way to remove the allergens in your home is to clean it up. During spring, the tree pollen counts can be high and cleaning will keep the pollen that has entered your home at bay. Call a professional cleaner to clean your carpets, rugs, upholsteries, and mattresses. You might also like to invest in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter so you can regularly clean the areas that easily accumulate dust.
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Manage pet dander
Pet furs and dander can trigger allergies. If you have pets at home, you can declare an area where your pets cannot enter so you will have a go-to place when you want to take a break from your pet. According to research, feline owners who have banned their cats from entering their bedrooms are less likely to develop cat allergies. Bathing your pet weekly will also reduce the amount of fur they shed.
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Remove molds
Many kinds of molds can trigger allergy and asthma attacks. During your routine cleaning, check your home for any signs of molds and mildew growth. Keep your house as dry as possible by fixing any leakage or seepage. Make use of dehumidifiers and air conditioning units, especially in the areas where molds can easily grow.
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Control dust mites
These tiny and annoying creatures dwell in the fabrics found in our homes. Cover mattresses and pillows in zippered dust-proof covers, wash your sheets and blankets weekly in hot water, avoid wall-to-wall carpeting, if possible, and keep the humidity in your home less than 50%. Also get rid of all types of fabric that mites love and that you cannot easily wash regularly in hot water including curtains, blinds, upholstered furniture and down-filled covers and pillows in the bedroom.
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Invest in humidity controllers and air purifiers
Molds and other allergens thrive in humid environments. Keeping the right level of humidity in your home is crucial but a little tricky. Invest in humidity controllers so the humidity level in your home is less than 50%. Air purifiers with HEPA filter also help in controlling the allergens that enter your home.