Allergy season is upon us and millions of Americans will battle the triggers that cause itchy eyes, runny noses and asthma attacks. While people may think their homes offer a respite from allergy triggers like dust mites and mold – their home may be harboring more harm than they know.
Angie’s List Spring Cleaning Tips for Allergy Sufferers:
- Wash your bedding weekly: Toss your sheets in water that’s at least 130 degrees and place dust-mite covers on mattresses and pillows.
- Choose a solid surface: Replace carpet with a solid surface such as hardwood – this can eliminate 90 percent of dust mites. If you must have carpet, get low pile – not shag.
- Clean up the mold: Mold is caused by moisture and can hide out in your bathroom, kitchen and basement. To avoid mold buildup, keep things dry as possible and fix leaky plumbing. Consider paint or tile instead of wallpaper. If you have excessive mold, hire a professional for mold removal.
- Ventilate your bathroom: It’s a good idea to keep the humidity in your home below 50 percent. Too much moisture can lead to mold, mildew and dust mites. Run the bathroom fan to pull moisture from the air or open a window to help the air circulate.
- Avoid upholstered furniture: Upholstered furniture traps allergens and is difficult to clean thoroughly. Instead, opt for leather, vinyl, wood or furniture with removable slipcovers that can be laundered.
- Control animal dander: Keep pets out of the bedroom and bathe them on a weekly basis.
- Eliminate cockroaches: Cockroaches can trigger asthma symptoms. It’s best to hire a professional exterminator to get rid of the pesky pests. In the meantime, caulk all areas where the roaches can enter.
- De-clutter: Get rid of excess knickknacks. The clutter just collects dust.
- Check filters: Every month, check the filters on your air conditioner, furnace, and dehumidifiers. If they are dirty, replace them.