A fresh and clean living space is good for the soul—and your allergies. Environmental allergens lurking in your home, such as mold, mildew, dust, pet dander and pollen, can cause allergy symptoms to flare.
Want to get rid of those unwelcome allergen house guests? Try our easy spring-cleaning tips below.
To reduce and manage dust/dust mites:
- Enclose mattresses, box springs and pillows in allergen-proof covers to avoid inhaling allergens while sleeping.
- Wash bedding and mattress pads weekly in hot water that is at least 130° to kill dust mites.
- Dust with a damp cloth, as dusting with a dry cloth spreads dust in the air.
- Cut down on anything that collects dust, such as magazines, stuffed toys, curtains, knickknacks, etc.
To manage pet allergens:
- Keep the pets out of the bedroom and off upholstered furniture.
- Use a double- or micro-filter bag in your vacuum, and try to vacuum at least once a week.
- Use HEPA air cleaners to help remove allergen particles from the air.
To reduce pollen:
- Keep windows closed during pollen season and use central air-conditioning with an allergy filter attachment.
- Shower daily before going to bed.
- Change clothes when you come home after being outside during the pollen season.
To control mold and mildew:
- Use dehumidifiers or exhaust fans to reduce the humidity in your home.
- Avoid leaving damp clothes in the washing machine.
- Keep bathroom walls dry after showering.
- Run a cup of vinegar through a regular cycle on your dishwasher every four to six weeks.
Another pro tip: Remember to wear a dust mask while cleaning to avoid inhaling allergens.
Ensuring your space is as allergen-free as possible will help with symptom control, but getting professional medical care for your allergies is also a good idea.
Immunotherapy (allergy shots or drops) is a highly effective, proven treatment for finding relief. To find out if it’s right for you and to get a test to determine your specific allergy triggers, call Willamette ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation.
“Have always found the staff and doctors here to be helpful. This was my first visit with Dr. Prze after Dr. Allan retired, and he was very friendly, enthusiastic, and thorough. It was obvious he had read my chart carefully before my checkup.”