Indoor allergens affect millions of people every year. While an air purifier can help limit your exposure to most indoor allergens, they can cost a lot of money. Whether your symptoms are caused by dust mites, dander, or mold, here are five ways to reduce home allergens in your home.
Wash your bedding weekly
Dust mites are common indoor allergens for many. And they can be found throughout your home. However, they thrive in warm, humid environments such as bedding. Encase mattresses, box springs, and pillows in unique allergen-proof fabric covers. Also, wash your bedding weekly in hot water. While the sheets are in the wash, dust the bedroom thoroughly.
Clean up mold and mildew buildups
Indoor molds and mildew can be found in damp areas of the home, such as basements and bathrooms. To get rid of mold growth on hard surfaces, use a mix of water, detergent, and 5 percent bleach. Then dry the area thoroughly. If the mold buildup covers an ample space, consider hiring a professional. Here’s a tip: Vinegar: Killing an impressive 82 percent of mold, 99 percent of bacteria, and 80 percent of viruses, undiluted white vinegar is a highly effective cleaner. Spray undiluted vinegar onto a surface and leave it for several hours before scrubbing with a brush. To prevent mold growth in moist areas such as shower curtains, spray the area with vinegar and dry.
Keep humidity levels in the ideal range
The EPA recommends keeping humidity levels below 60 percent in the summer and between 25 and 40 percent during the winter. Consider installing a dehumidifier in the basement or upgrading the bathroom exhaust fan if humidity levels are consistently out of range. You should run the bathroom fan for 20 minutes after taking a shower to clear humidity adequately and ensure moisture in the fan body or ducting is minimized. Installing a timer can boost effectiveness and energy efficiency, making it easy to run the fan for the proper amount of time without worrying about shutting it off later.
Maintain a weekly cleaning routine
Damp-mop wood or linoleum flooring and vacuum carpeting. Use a vacuum cleaner with a small-particle or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Use a damp cloth to clean other surfaces, including the tops of doors, windowsills, and window frames. If you have allergies, wear a dust mask or get someone who doesn’t have allergies to do this job.
Will Air is a high-quality residential and commercial, heating, and cooling company in Central Maryland. With over 30 years of experience, we provide the best services at affordable rates, while our preventative planned program is top of the line for the industry. Always remember, where there’s a Will, there’s a Way! Contact us now.