Do you find yourself sniffling and sneezing at certain times of the year? Allergies are certainly common and often caused by seasonal changes. But what happens when you start getting itchy eyes and a runny nose while you’re inside? Could you be allergic to something in your home? It turns out that many people do suffer from allergies to things commonly found inside homes, like mold, pet dander, and dust mites. If this sounds like you, then read on to discover easy steps for fighting allergies when you’re at home.
Become friends with your vacuum
One of the easiest ways to keep allergies at bay in your home is to vacuum frequently. Make sure to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter which removes nearly 100 percent of things such as dust, pollen, and mold. You should vacuum both carpet and hardwood floors at least once a week.
Use a mask
We’ve all gotten used to wearing masks when we’re out and about, and you no doubt have a nice stash of them. Wear them when you’re cleaning and dusting your home. This will help keep you from breathing in those particles that give you an allergic reaction. An N95 mask is the best choice, but even a fabric mask will protect you.
Keep the windows open
Another way to get relief from indoor allergies is to keep doors and windows open, especially when you’re cleaning. This lets air move freely through your home which will expose you to fewer allergens. The only time you shouldn’t do this is when the pollen count is high, as that could trigger a reaction.
Keep pets out of your bedroom
We know how much you love cuddling with your furry best friend. But they could be the cause of your indoor allergies. For this reason, you should keep your pets out of your bedroom. Many people react to allergens from cats and dogs, and pets can also track in mold and pollen from outside. Since you spend a good deal of time in your bedroom, try to limit how much time your pets spend in there with you.
Avoid upholstery and carpeting
Allergens can get trapped in upholstery and carpeting, which is why many experts recommend minimizing your use of upholstered furniture and rugs. This is especially true in your bedroom. One of the worst things you can do if you suffer from indoor allergies is to have an upholstered headboard. Since your head is next to it all night long, it can make your allergy symptoms much worse. Opt for a wood or metal headboard instead.
Avoid steamy showers
We know how good it feels to take a hot, steamy shower, especially on a cold day. But if you have indoor allergies, you should avoid filling your bathroom with steam. Steam can cause mold to grow. Dust mites also thrive in humid environments. In addition to limiting how steamy your bathroom gets, you should also run the fan to keep the air moving.
Get an air purifier
Finally, if indoor allergies truly make you suffer, then it could be worth it to invest in an air purifier, especially in your bedroom. To make it even more effective, run the air purifier in your bedroom during the day with the door closed. This will clean the air before you go to sleep so you’ll have a restful night.
Also read: Tips for a Happier, Healthier Home
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