Many of us are afflicted with allergies nowadays, and depending on their severity, they can impact greatly on our daily lives. Some allergies, such as those related to seasonal issues of pollen and vegetation, may have no solution, other than that you try to avoid going near the plants that affect you the most, or you take an over the counter allergy remedy to help alleviate the symptoms. But there are some allergies, like those related to mould growth, dust mites, and even pets, that can be deterred and even eradicated, with a few simple tips:
Dust mites and how to limit their numbers:
Dust mites are tiny, microscopic insects found living quite happily among household dust. Here are a few ways to keep their numbers down:
- If possible, choose a hard surface floor covering as opposed to a carpet, as the little critters love to make their homes among the tufts where dust easily gathers
- Instead of fabric curtains, use roller blinds that are easy to keep clean and dust free
- Upholstered furniture may look great, but it can also be a haven for dust and mites, so if you can, opt for leather, plastic or vinyl furniture
- If you do have upholstered furniture and curtains and carpets, then try to ensure that they are cleaned regularly and thoroughly. A vacuum cleaner should get the job done effectively, provided it has the attachments which allow for cleaning such items. You can also purchase vacuum cleaners that are fitted with a special filter to trap high volumes of dust mites
- Beds are a prime breeding ground for dust mites, so consider using allergy proof covers on mattresses, and any other bedding
- Dusting may seem like a good idea, but it tends to simply spread the dust over a greater area; instead, wipe all surfaces with a soft, damp cloth
Keeping mould spores at bay:
Mould can release hundreds of tiny particles that many people are allergic to, but there are some things you can do to help reduce their numbers
- Try to keep your home as well ventilated as possible and as dry as possible, especially in the winter seasons and during rainy periods
- Pot plants are nice things to have inside your homes, but unfortunately they can be breeding grounds for mould spores
- Clothes that are tightly packed or hung inside wardrobes can easily harbour mould spores, as can damp clothes hung up to dry inside
- If you spot any damp areas or condensation in your home, try to deal with as quickly as possible
How to keep pets and limit the risk of an allergic reaction:
Many people mistakenly believe that allergic reactions to pets are caused by their fur, but in fact it’s the flakes of their dead skin, saliva and dried urine that we usually react to:
- The more your pet is inside the home, the higher the chance of you being exposed to allergies, so if you can, try to limit their time indoors
- If they must be in your home, try to keep them in an area where there are no carpets and keep them off the upholstered furniture and beds
- Bathe them at least once a week but groom them outside, otherwise the dead skin cells will fall off onto your floors and surfaces
- Try to keep the areas of your home in which your pet spends time, well ventilated and you could also consider using an air filter in them, too