Ways to Allergy Proof Your Home This Winter

cleaning the kitchenWith the outdoor allergy season coming to a close, it’s time to start thinking about how you and your family can prepare for what many refer to as the “indoor allergy season.”

While many allergy sufferers undergo symptoms through the spring with its aromatic flowers and high pollen count, they also often have to suffer when the weather gets cooler. Dust, mites, houseplants, pet dander and many other allergens can cause these indoor allergies.

There are plenty of things you can do inside your home to reduce allergen levels, from cleaning and vacuuming regularly to keeping humidity levels low. Here are some ways you can keep your home allergy-free in the coming winter months:

Keep things clean

One of the best things you can do to dramatically cut down on the amount of allergens in your home is to keep it clean. Start by clearing up any unused items or clutter, especially the stuff under beds and furniture. Keep things clean with regular vacuuming and dusting. Always use a vacuum that has HEPA filter and an easily changeable bag or container. And when dusting, use a wet cloth instead of a duster as dry dusting can send dust right back into the air.

Filter the air

Houseplants make natural air filters, but for people with allergies, sometimes plants can actually be a problem. If you love having plants in your home, perhaps try out artificial ones. They can look very realistic and can significantly cut down on your allergy suffering. As for air purifying, find an air purifier with a HEPA filter. These are great for cleaning the air in general by trapping tiny, microscopic particles and leaving your air free of dust and pet dander. Finally, don’t forget to change out the filters in your HVAC system about once a month.

Change out fabrics/materials

Certain materials, such as wall-to-wall carpeting or upholstered couches and chairs can be traps for dust, mites and other types of indoor allergens. Even with regular vacuuming, dust and mites can live in your furniture and carpets. Consider switching out your upholstered sofa for one made of leather or other materials that tend to hold fewer allergens. Or, look into hiring a professional home remodeler to remove your carpet and put hardwood or tile flooring down. Finally, purchase bed covers designed to protect your mattress and bedding from mites, bed bugs and other microscopic allergens.

Keep your home cool and dry

Keep your home cool and dry to decrease mold and dust mite growth. One recent study actually found that levels of mites and other allergens dropped significantly in homes where the relative humidity was kept below 50 percent. To maintain this level, you may need to use your air conditioner along with a dehumidifier. Remember, if you use a dehumidifier, be sure to empty the water daily – or try to have the machine run directly into a drain, if possible. To track the humidity level, buy a gauge with a digital readout. These are available at local hardware stores.

Use doormats for prevention

Yes, you are reading this correctly. Experts say that by placing doormats both outside and inside your doors can work as a great way to keep outside allergens from coming inside your house. Always make sure you regularly wash your doormats. And try to get in the habit of asking family member and visitors to take their shoes and boots off after entering. This way, any particles still left on these shoes won’t travel around the house.

Republic West Remodeling can provide you with additional advice about how to keep your home a healthy one – reach out today to learn more, or other Phoenix home remodeling ideas.

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