4 Ways to Control Indoor Allergies Naturally
If you think you are safe at home and cannot be affected by seasonal or indoor allergies, then you need to read this guide.
Unfortunately, the indoor environment is host to many allergens, even in your own home. These are usually worst in summers when the dust mites are at their peak, but may be even worse in winters when the windows are closed. Opening the windows would only mean inviting more allergens such as pollen, which could be present outside in even higher concentrations. To make sure that you are breathing in a clean environment, you need to take the following measures.
1. Clean and Circulate the Air in Your House
To keep the air in your house clean at all times, you need a whole-home purifier. Premium quality home air purifiers clean up to 95 percent of the airborne pathogens and allergens, such as pollen, dander, and smoke. They can clean the air up to eight cycles per hour, which makes them an excellent addition to your HVAC system since they prevent long-term expenses like medications and doctor’s visits.
Another good way to ensure clean air is to purchase an air filter with a high MERV rating. High-rating air filters can clear away up to 98 percent of the pollutants and airborne allergens in your house. These include bacteria, cooking oil, smoke, and droplets that measure as small as 0.3 microns. A MERV rating is usually between one to 16, with one being the lowest.
2. Dust and Vacuum Regularly
Image via Flickr by Rubbermaid Products
Old carpets are a great hideout for the allergens. Vacuuming and dusting regularly prevents buildup and removes them from your living space! Laminating the floors or using hardwood is also a good option, while simply replacing the old carpet with a new one is something that can be done in the short term.
3. Monitor Your House for Mold
The moisture inside the house is a major cause of mold buildup. You can get rid of it by using a dehumidifier. For mold that already exists, use a damp cloth to clear it away. If you are using cleansers, make sure they are free from harmful chemicals.
4. Groom your Pets Regularly
Bathing and grooming pets twice a week is the recommended practice for pet owners. You should keep pets in a separate room instead of keeping them in your bedroom. It is also a good idea to invest in an affordable pet insurance, like Bivvy, and make sure your pet stays healthy. It is best to use an HVAC system which is specialized for filtering pet allergens. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, about 30 percent of the population has an allergic reaction to dogs and cats.
Having indoor allergens is not just a seasonal problem. They are present all year round in the form of dust, pollutants, and toxins, as well as from pets, but with conscientious cleaning routines — along with a top-notch HVAC system — you can keep them well under control. For best results, it is recommended to practice all the steps above to minimize indoor allergy symptoms naturally.