Main Source of Indoor Allergens
Who knew that your home could be the source of so many irritating allergens? Indoor allergens can be found in your bedroom, living room, kitchen, and bathroom. According to Health Finder, these are some allergens you can find in these spaces.
- Mold spores
- Dust mites
- Dander, urine, and skin flakes from pets
- Cockroaches
- Mice, rats, and other rodents
- Wood smoke
- Strong fragrances
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI), dust mites are the most common cause of allergic reactions. Dust mites thrive in humid places and create the reaction of sneezing or wheezing.
Mold spores are another common indoor allergen. Mold spores can be tracked in from outside but also can be formed right in your home.
Allergic reactions can come in the form of sneezing, itchy eyes, asthma attacks, skin rashes, or a runny nose. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, there are ways to fight back.
How to fix indoor allergens
The main way to get rid of indoor allergens is to clean regularly. The ACAAI and Mayo Clinic provide tips and tricks for cleaning to make sure those allergens are gone for good.
To get rid of dust, vacuum regularly and wash items such as curtains and bedding in hot water. Over time, your carpet and couch can become full of dust and other allergens. In most cases, it is not realistic to get rid of your couch or put a new carpet in, so finding products to denature or deactivate the dust will do the trick!
To avoid mold in your bathroom and kitchen, make sure these rooms are well ventilated so that built-up moisture can find a way out. Installing a vented exhaust fan in your kitchen can reduce moisture and get rid of cooking fumes, sending them outside. Consistently disinfecting these areas can attack the allergens as well.
Pets bring love and cuddles into our lives, but they also bring dander, skin flakes, and urine. Bathe your pet once a week, and keep the cuddles in the living room and not your bedroom. After playing with your pet, wash your hands and clothes to make sure all the hair and dander are gone.
Allergens in your home are not just seasonal. These tips and tricks can be most effective if practiced all year long, so fight back when allergies hit and make your home an allergy-free zone.