Home is certainly a place where you can relax and just breathe. However, if you’re someone dealing with allergies, sometimes, the slightest discomfort at your home may end up with endless sneezes, itchy eyes, and constant discomfort. However, fortunately, you can always turn your living space into an allergy-friendly environment with simple changes.
Read this article to explore some of the best tips on how you can create an allergy-friendly environment at home so that you and your loved ones can breathe safely.
Begin With The Entrance
Allergen’s entry in your home starts right at your entrance. The fact is—shoes bring in dirt, pollen, and other outdoor allergens. Therefore, it is essential to make it a habit for everyone to leave their footwear at the door. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, removing shoes reduces indoor allergen levels by almost 60 percent. Simultaneously, you can also look for good-quality doormats—both outside and inside your entrance. Don't forget to shake them regularly. Did you know that this simple step prevents pollen and dust from entering your home?
Declutter for Cleaner Air
Did you know that clutter is a magnet for dust and allergens? Untouched home decor, piles of books, and toys stuffed with dust and mold are actually making your allergies worse. The best approach is to keep only what you truly need and love. Another way is to pick furniture with simple designs that are easy to clean. Moreover, always pick closed cabinets as a cleaner storage choice compared to open cabinets because even though they might look good, they also collect dust quite faster.
Pick The Right Flooring
The truth is—carpets and rugs are a storehouse of dust mites and allergens. Instead, choose hard flooring, such as wood, tile, or laminate, that is quite easy to keep dust free and eventually allergy free. However, if you just can't get rid of your favorite rugs, always choose the ones that are machine washable and which you can clean often. Yes, don't forget to vacuum clean your floors regularly!
Purify the Air
You will be surprised to know the fact that the air inside your home can be up to five times more polluted than the air outside, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). One of the best ways to ensure an allergy-friendly environment at home is to buy an air purifier to reduce allergens such as dust, pet dander, and mold spores. For maximum efficacy, pick the one that comes with a HEPA filter. Lastly, don't forget about the simplest air purifier ever—fresh air! So always open windows and doors to let indoor air circulate.
Goodbye to Dust Mites
Dust mites are tiny, microscopic pests that build up in bedding, upholstery, and carpets, and they are a common reason for triggering allergies for millions of people. The best way to deal with these unwelcome houseguests is using mattresses and pillows with allergen-proof covers. It's also essential to wash your bedding, pillowcases, and curtains in hot water at least 130°F every week to kill dust mites.
Humidity Levels In Check
The fact is high humidity levels actually create an environment for mold, dust mites, and other allergens to multiply. The ideal humidity levels at your home must not be more than 30-50 percent. So if you doubt your home feeling too damp, a dehumidifier is here for your rescue. Simply install in high-humidity areas, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or basements. Besides, using exhaust fans when cooking or showering also significantly helps in reducing moisture buildup.
Takeaway
The fact is—most people spend almost 90 percent of their time indoors. Therefore, making your living spaces healthy and allergy-friendly can have a significant impact on the quality of life. With some simple tips, you can easily create a home that will make it a safe space to breathe while also improving sleep, reducing stress, and keeping allergy symptoms distant.