Allergy and flu season is upon us; but unfortunately for some, allergy season is every season. If you are one of those lucky individuals, it doesn’t seem to matter what you do, you still suffer from allergies and have reactions to all sorts of things. While you generally cannot control your environment outside in the world or at your workplace, you thankfully can do things within your own home to lessen the effects of those pesky allergens.

Dust mites, dander, dust, pollen and other allergy-causing things working their way into your home, pollutants, and even sometimes the material of your furniture can cause allergies.

It seems never-ending. Sneezing, sniffling, itching, coughing, burning or swollen eyes, rashes…enough is enough! You want to learn what to do to lessen your allergy symptoms inside of your own home.

Let’s take a look at some great advice from the experts!

The following tips come from the Mayo Clinic:

  • Encase your mattress and pillows in allergy/dust mite-proof covers.
  • Wash all of your bedding in hot water at least once a week.
  • Do not use wool or feather bedding.
  • Carpet is not good for those with allergies—replace with wood if able.
  • If you do have carpet or rugs, shampoo them regularly.
  • Steam clean your floors (wood, tile, etc.) regularly.
  • If you have window treatments, wash or steam clean them regularly as well.
  • Keep windows closed, especially during high pollen season.
  • If there is condensation on your windows/sills during the colder months, make sure to clean them and ensure they are not growing mold.
  • Avoid upholstered furniture if possible—if not, steam clean them regularly.
  • Pets—don’t get rid of Fido or Sassy! So bathe them regularly, do not let them onto your bed, and wipe them down with dander-cleaning pet wipes.
  • Smoking in the house is a big no-no.
  • Regularly change out air filters and make sure you are getting one that is a small-particle or HEPA filter.
  • The same goes for your vacuum cleaner…get one with a HEPA filter and if you have pets, get one that is specifically for those with pets.
  • Invest in an air purifier…there are several on the market, but make sure you are doing your research and getting one that has a HEPA filter and one that controls dander…if you have pets.
  • Temperature and humidity: “Hot, humid houses are breeding grounds for dust mites and mold. Maintain the temperature between 68 F (20 C) and 72 F (22 C) and keep relative humidity no higher than 50 percent. Clean or replace small-particle filters in central heating and cooling systems and in room air conditioners at least once a month.”
  • Ventilate the bathroom and kitchen when using them. Watch out for mold.
  • Wash your shower curtain every other week.
  • Bleach your tub and sinks—or make a DIY mold-killer—every week.
  • When you dust or vacuum, wear a mask!

There are SO many tips, and probably a lot more out there, to protect you from allergies in your own home. It takes a lot of work up front to keep you healthy and allergy-free, but it is worth it in the end.

If you have any questions about how your HVAC system can help in the allergy-reduction process, be sure to contact a professional like Dale Heating Cooling and Sheetmetal, so that you can make the most informed choice for your home’s specific needs.