Did you know that allergies and asthma begin at home? While many of us stay indoors during high pollen season, some are unaware that our indoor air quality is also a culprit for asthma attacks and allergies. The most common allergens at home are dust mites, pet danders, and cockroaches.
The main sources of indoor allergens are:
Pets
Wall-to-wall carpet
Soft furniture
Stuffed toys
Bedding
Damp areas
Indoor plants
Mattresses that aren’t in allergy covers
Pillows and bedding you can’t wash in hot water
According to the Minnesota Department of Health, one in 16 children (6.3%)and one in 10 adults (9.9%) currently have asthma, totaling around 516,200 Minnesotans. The prevalence of asthma among adults in Minnesota has been rising since 2019, and one factor is home and community environments. Regularly cleaning your home has a lot of benefits, one of which is having better indoor air quality. There are many things you can do to lessen indoor allergies one of which is by improving the indoor air quality. Here are more tips to prevent indoor allergies:
Essential Tips to Prevent Indoor Allergies
Prevent Pet Dander
Most doctors recommend that individuals with animal dander allergies avoid having pets with fur or feathers, since there are no truly hypoallergenic pets. Those with pet allergies react to dander, which consists of shed skin cells from animals. While some pets produce dander with fewer allergenic proteins, this may still cause reactions in sensitive individuals.
To minimize exposure, keep pets out of your bedroom and close the doors when you're not home. Use dense materials, like cheesecloth, to cover vents, since pet allergens can be sticky. Regularly wash and change your pet’s favorite furniture and toys to reduce allergens.
Consider replacing wall-to-wall carpets with hard flooring or low-pile carpets. Regularly bathing and brushing your pets may help alleviate symptoms, but if you have animal allergies, it's best to avoid grooming. If grooming is necessary, be sure to wear a mask.
Be aware that long-haired pets can bring in pollen during peak pollination seasons like spring and fall.
If you think you might have a pet allergy, consult a board-certified allergist for testing.
2. Avoid Mold Spores
Minimize moisture in the bathroom, kitchen, and other areas prone to excess water. Here are some tips to help reduce mold growth:
Avoid running your showers for extended periods before bathing.
Utilize dehumidifiers to control both mold and dust mites.
Use humidity monitors to keep track of moisture levels.
Limit the number of houseplants you have.
Repair any leaks and address other sources of dampness.
If you spot mold on a surface, clean it right away. Wear a mask while cleaning and maintain a weekly cleaning routine to prevent it from coming back.
Reducing humidity decreases dust mites and mold growth. Air conditioners help reduce humidity too. Turn your air conditioner on recirculate.
3. Control Cockroaches
The most effective way to control cockroaches is by using a variety of methods. Since roaches thrive in environments with abundant food, moisture, and shelter, maintaining cleanliness is crucial for both the prevention and resolution of infestations. Be sure to clean up spills and food waste promptly, and avoid leaving unwashed dishes, utensils, or pet food out overnight. Store loose food in airtight containers, and prevent garbage from piling up. Discard or store stacks of paper bags, cartons, and newspapers in sealed plastic bags to reduce potential hiding places for roaches.
Additionally, use poison baits, boric acid, and traps instead of chemicals since it may irritate your sinuses and asthma.
If you can, schedule a deep cleaning service to ensure that your home is cleaned properly.
4. Vacuum Regularly
Vacuuming effectively reduces allergens, but low-quality vacuums may release dust back into the air. Choose vacuums that are Certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly®. These models have been tested to ensure they prevent allergens from being released back into your home environment. Hiring a cleaning company regularly if you are living in the Minneapolis and Saint Paul area will help you maintain your home if you have a busy schedule. The cleaners will not only vacuum your carpets, they will also sweep, mop, and wipe surfaces to get rid of dust which will help you improve your indoor air quality.
5. Control Dust Mites
Keep your home clean and organized by minimizing clutter on surfaces. Opt for bare floors and walls whenever possible, especially in the bedroom where you spend a significant amount of your time. If you need carpeting, choose low-pile options or washable throw rugs, and try to avoid wall-to-wall carpeting. Also, steer clear of heavy drapes and bulky upholstered furniture; instead, consider using roll-down shades or washable curtains.
Protect your pillows, mattresses, and box springs with zippered allergen-resistant or plastic covers, which are highly effective in limiting your exposure to dust mites. Encasing your mattress can be more beneficial than relying on air cleaners to alleviate allergy symptoms. Make sure to wash your bedding, uncovered pillows, and stuffed toys each week in water that is 130 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter, and dry them on a hot cycle to kill dust mites.
You can control indoor allergens by cleaning and reducing allergens in your home. Having a clean home means having a healthier environment. Aside from the apparent hygiene advantages, a clean home promotes better physical health by reducing allergens and preventing illnesses. It also fosters mental well-being, reducing stress and anxiety level. We understand that not everyone has the time to clean their home that’s why at Mexicleaning, we offer recurring cleaning services that’s flexible and tailored-fit to every home.
