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Last Updated on December 13, 2018 by Work In My Pajamas
With over 50 million allergy sufferers across the United States, reducing allergens has become a vital step in improving your health. While medication can help relieve some of the causes and symptoms of allergies, reducing the overall number of allergens in your home is far more effective. Here are some suggestions to help you control allergens for clean, breathable air throughout your home.
Start in the Bedroom
Allergens can lurk in every room in the house, but many allergy sufferers find that their symptoms intensify when they sleep. Dust mites, pet dander, and other contaminants are often found in your room, so give your bedroom a thorough cleaning at least once a week.
Wash the sheets in hot water to kill any pests in your bedding, wash or vacuum the curtains, and wipe any surfaces where dust can collect. You should also vacuum the floor weekly and steam clean it annually. If you don’t see any results, consider changing to hardwood flooring. Even if you don’t enjoy the cold feeling of hardwood on your feet, you can always use your craft skills to fashion a stylish, easy-to-clean area rug.
Replaces Drapes With Blinds or Shades
Blinds and shades are more affordable ways to keep the sun out of your home, but they often lack the visual aesthetic that you get with drapes. However, they’re a sound way to help eliminate allergies in the home. Blinds are painless to vacuum with the right attachment, while most shades are easy to detach and throw in the washer.
You can find pre-made shades and blinds at any home improvement store, and most places will cut the shades to fit your measurements. If you want to add your own creative touch, however, try converting blinds to roman shades or sewing your own shades from fabrics of your choice.
Eliminate Clutter
Clutter is one of the most egregious violators of clean air in your home. The more clutter you have, the more places for allergens to hang out. The best way to clear the clutter is to go around your house from room to room, systematically removing stuff you don’t need or want. Take everything and split it up into boxes: one for storage and one for yard sale stuff. Once you’re done removing everything, you’ll be surprised how much nicer everything looks and how much better you’ll be able to breathe.
Your job doesn’t end there. Clutter can end up right back where it was if you’re not careful. The best way to rid your house of it is to create your own organizational system. You can repurpose old wooden crates for storage, build your own shelving, or use hooks to hang everything from hats to kitchen utensils. Once you’re finished, you can say goodbye to clutter and the accompanying allergens.
Reducing allergens in your home is a constant battle, but armed with these do-it-yourself tips, you can make it quicker and simpler than ever. Not only will you breathe easier, but you’ll also have chic, unique decor that’s fit for the cover of a home improvement magazine.
