In a previous post, we discussed the allergens that are prevalent during the winter months. It is easier to be around the indoor allergens more because you have the tendency to spend more time indoors when the weather turns to storms and flurries. While winter allergens are inevitable, the severity of the allergies can be controlled. What are some ways that you can reduce your exposure to indoor allergens?
Clean, Clean, Clean
One of the most important ways to reduce your exposure to indoor allergens is to keep a clean house. This can mean dusting and sweeping more often to pick up any pet dander that has collected. Additionally, regularly washing the bedding and using a hotter temperature to reduce the buildup of mites. Dust all surfaces using materials that will pick up the dust instead of just spreading it around. There are many types of products available to dust more thoroughly from sprays to dust catchers.
Cover Everything
Another way to reduce exposure to indoor allergens is to use mattress and pillow covers. There are allergy reducing covers that can keep dust mites from collecting on the surfaces. Also, another way to reduce the spread of allergens is to use allergy specific air filters in your home. These will need to be changed regularly to maintain their effectiveness.
Maintain Carpeting
Regular vacuuming of the carpeting is essential to keep allergens from collecting. You can either choose to keep the carpet vacuumed and cleaned, or you can choose to remove the carpeting and replace with hard flooring. While this will reduce allergens, they can still collect on the new floor, so sweeping will be important.
Crumb Removal
One thing that will attract bugs into your home is not cleaning up crumbs that fall on the floor or counter surfaces. Some bugs enter homes to search for food and to get out of the cold. By not cleaning your crumbs, you are supplying a food source for your unwelcome guests. Regular cleaning of crumbs can make them look elsewhere for food.
Fix Leaks
Dripping water can cause water damage but can also be the source for the beginning of mold in your home. Mold damage can start out small but become a costly repair if portions of the wall need to be removed. If mold is discovered in a wall, a larger area will need to be searched to make sure it has not spread. Looking for and repairing leaks is a good first step in reducing the instance of water damage or mold formation.
