Having allergies can be a real challenge, especially if they are triggered by environmental factors inside your home. If you suffer from indoor allergies and want to improve the air quality in your house, there are several steps you can take to reduce and remove allergens in your home. From changing out air filters regularly to brushing your pet more often, there are many ways to help keep allergies at bay so that you and your family can breathe easier.
Easy Ways to Improve the Air Quality and Remove Allergens in Your Home
Change Air Filters Regularly
Buildup of dust mites and other allergens in your home can be a major source of discomfort for family members who suffer from allergies. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce dust mites and other allergens in your home.
One of the most effective actions is to change your air filters regularly. Doing so will help remove dust particles, dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold spores, and other allergens from carpets and furniture surfaces that may trigger an allergic reaction. Changing air filters often allows for better circulation throughout the house and prevents dust build-up on surfaces such as windowsills or countertops.
Use an Air Purifier
An air purifier can be an effective tool in helping to reduce and remove allergens in your home. Air purifiers are designed to capture and filter out various particles to improve the air quality in your home. To learn more about air purifiers, HEPA filters, and further benefits of an air purifier, click here.
Have Your Ducts Cleaned Every 2 Years
Cleaning your ducts at least every two years is an important step in reducing allergens in your home. Duct cleaning services can help reduce dust, pollen, pet dander, and other pollutants that circulate in the air. Additionally, duct cleaning can help improve the efficiency of your HVAC system by removing build-up that restricts airflow through ductwork. Regular duct cleaning will also extend the life of your heating and cooling equipment as it removes dirt and debris that may affect its performance over time. In conjunction with regular air filter changes, clean ducts will help to ensure a cleaner indoor environment for you and your family.
Increase Your Vacuuming Frequency
You can also help reduce allergens in your home by vacuuming your carpets and high-traffic area more frequently. Vacuuming helps remove any dust particles that have settled into the fibers of carpets or furniture upholstery that would otherwise remain trapped until disturbed by movement within the room.
Clean with Natural Products
Cleaning with natural products is a great way to help reduce allergens in your home. Natural cleaning products don't contain harsh chemicals that can irritate allergies and even worsen existing allergy symptoms. In addition, they are often made from organic ingredients such as plant extracts and essential oils which have known benefits for improving air quality and reducing common allergens.
Keep Windows Closed During High Allergy Months
Keeping your windows closed during high allergy months prevents pollen, dander and other potential allergens from entering the home. This is especially helpful for people who suffer from seasonal, outdoor allergies. Closing your windows can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during hot summer months, will help keep humidity at bay, and reduce the possibility of the humidity causing any allergy symptoms to flare up.
Replace Your Old Mattress
If you find that allergies have been affecting your sleep, it may be time to purchase a new mattress. A typical mattress can contain an astonishing 8-10 million dust mites. Dust mites in mattresses not only aggravate asthma but can also cause difficulty with breathing, chest tightness, and trouble sleeping due to lack of air intake. Consider replacing your mattress every 7-9 years to reduce allergens and ensure you get the best sleep possible.
Don't Let Your Pet Sleep on Your Bed
We all love sleeping with our pets, however, if you experience allergy symptoms such as sneezing or coughing due to pet fur or dander in bed, it's best to make sure that your sleeping space remains free of pets.
Regularly Brush Your Pet
Pet hair and dander make up a significant portion of household dust, so it is recommended to brush your pets daily. Be sure to brush your pet outside if possible, as it prevents the allergens from spreading in your home. Frequent bathing can also help reduce the number of allergens in your pet's fur.
Be Selective with Your Houseplants
Research indicates that most indoor plants do not contain the specific type of pollen which affects those who suffer from allergies. However, be aware that certain types of plants can promote mold growth and collect dust; plus there is always a risk for cross-reactivity with common outdoor triggers when bringing greenery indoors. Test out different varieties to see what works best for you without triggering any uncomfortable reactions long term.
Leave Your Outdoor Layers at the Front Door
To prevent excess allergens from entering your home, consider designating a place for shoes and outerwear to be left just inside your door. During allergy season, consider cleaning this area frequently, even daily. If possible, add a doormat outside your front door to allow everyone entering to wipe off their shoes before entering the house.
Call on Professionals You Can Trust!
If you're looking to improve the air quality of your home, contact the professionals at Home Mechanics. We would love to help ensure your loved ones breathe freely and easily!