Although there are things you cannot do anything aboutᅳlike the allergens outside your houseᅳthere is plenty you can do to create a healthier, more allergy-friendly home. Here are 13 tips:

1. Keep a Clean Home with Minimal Dust

One of the effective ways to reduce indoor allergens is cleaning and making your house free from dust. Be sure to vacuum carpets and upholstery weekly with a HEPA filter, scientifically designed to trap even the tiniest particles of allergens. Don't forget to vacuum beneath furniture and in hard-to-reach corners where dust tends to accumulate. Use a damp cloth or microfiber duster instead of a feather duster, as these will trap the allergens on shelves, tables, and blinds and not spread them into the air.

2. Launder Bedding Weekly in Hot Water

Dust mites are very tiny arachnids that live quite happily in warm, humid surroundings such as bedding. To keep dust mites at bay, all bedding has to be washed, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, in hot waterᅳ130°Fᅳonce a week. Mattresses, pillows, and comforters should have allergen-proof covers. These pieces prevent the colonization of these pieces by the mites.

3. Humidity control

Dust mites and mold both thrive in humid environments, so it's important to keep humidity in indoor environments under 50%. Use a dehumidifier in the dampest corners of the home: basements and bathrooms. Fix leaks promptly so that no mold has the chance to grow. Use exhaust fans to take out the steam and remove extra moisture from cooking in the kitchen and from showers in the bathroom.

4. Keep Animals Out of Bedrooms and Off Furniture

Do not allow pets in the bedroom or on upholstered furniture if you are allergic to them. Bathing pets weekly will also help reduce dander. Brush your pets at least three times per week outside the house to take off dander that may be stuck in their fur. If you can't bring yourself to keep pets out of your bed, try, at least, to cover your mattress and pillows with covers made from materials that will not allow allergens to penetrate them.

5. Air Purifiers with HEPA Filters

Air purifiers with HEPA filters can be useful in taking out airborne allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and the remains of the dust mite from the house. Put purifiers in bedrooms and common areas where most time is spent. Remember to change the filters as indicated by the manufacturer to maintain top performance.

6. Eliminate

Allergens that get trapped in carpeting, such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, are challenging to remove entirely, even with regular vacuuming. If possible, consider switching to hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors that can be cleaned frequently by a home cleaning service. If replacing the carpet isn't an option, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter at least once a week. Additionally, use area rugs that can be easily washed frequently to maintain cleanliness.

7. No Shoe Policy

Making a no shoe policy is another simple but effective way to prevent outdoor allergen from getting indoors. Make a designated area near the entrance where shoes to be removed and provide slippers or indoor shoes for household members and guests. This will help to minimize the risk of pollens, mold and other outdoor allergens from getting stuck on carpets and floors.

‍

8. Indoor Plants

Introduce indoor plants known for their air-purifying properties in your house. It will not only add greenery to your house but also helps to filter air by absorbing common allergens. Plants such as spider plants, peace lilies, and snake plants are known for their air purifying ability. Make sure you don’t over water the plants to prevent the mold growth.

‍

9. Regular Pest Control

Pest control treatments after each 15 days to eliminate the common household pests like cockroaches which can contribute to indoor  allergens. Regular pest treatments will control the pest populations and minimize the allergen exposure and ultimately it will give you healthier living environment.

‍

10. Keep Windows Closed During High Pollen Days

Keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons, and turn on air conditioning with an air filter to filter air coming inside. Filters on air conditioning should be changed at appropriate intervals to be sure that they are trapping the allergens. Open windows for fresh air when you absolutely have to during the part of the day when the pollen count is lowest, such as in the evening or after a rainstorm.

11. Go for Easy-to-Maintain Furniture and Window Dress

Allergens are sure to fill upholstered furniture and heavy drapes, which will thus be hard to keep clean. Go for furniture made of leather, vinyl, or wood that can easily be wiped down. Select curtain and/or window coverings that can be washed or blinds that can be wiped down in order to keep the dust off.

‍

12. No Smoking within Premises

Remember, cigarette smoke can irritate allergies and asthma, so it is important to keep your home smoke-free. If you or a family member smokes, do so outdoors, away from open windows and doors. Encourage smokers to wash their hands and change their clothing after smoking in order to avoid bringing in smoke residue.

‍

13. Check for Mold and Mildew at Regular Intervals

Molds can trigger allergic reactions and asthma, so it's important to inspect your home periodically for their growth, particularly in damp places, including the bathroom, kitchen, and basement. If mold is found, scrub the mold away using a mixture of water and detergent, or else use a commercial mold remover. Solve moisture-related problems promptly, such as leaks or condensation, to prevent mold growth in the first place.

‍

With these 13 easy tips incorporated into your life, the allergens in your home will decrease significantly, thereby making dealing with allergies much easier for your family and you. Remember that keeping your home allergen-proof is a task to be carried on constantly. As such, be always mindful and continue in your regular cleaning and maintenance practices. With some work and attention, you'll soon be able to breathe easier and make the most of your home even in allergy season.