How to Keep Your Home Sneeze Free All Year

The beautiful cool day of autumn are beginning to turn the leaves yellow and the goldenrod and other allergens are in full bloom. For those that suffer from allergies the beginning of the fall season is a dreaded time of the year.

Pollen, mold and dust, and other allergens also lurk in our homes. Pet dander, mold, dust, dust mites and pollen is carried into the house by the wind and on our clothing.

Pet Dander

Occupants of the house may have a pet that stays outdoors, however, pet hair and dander on your clothing can get deposited on couch cushions, afghans, stuffed toys and carpeting. To prevent the spread of allergens, vacuum your furniture, floors and carpet often.

Dust

Dust accumulates on table tops, books, books shelves, and picture frames. These items should be dusted weekly. In climates with high humidity books should be checked for growth of mold.

The warmth and moisture from your body encourages the growth of dust mites on bed pillows. Encase pillows in allergy-proof pillow covers to be used under the pillow cases. Pillow covers should be washed once a month in hot water and dried in a heated dryer.

Mold

Bath mats, damp towels and bathroom rugs are an invitation for mold to accumulate.

Squeegee the shower or spray with a clean-shower product to dry the sides of the shower after use. Use washable mats and hang bath towels to dry. Shower curtains should be checked frequently for mold, and either washed or replaced.

Moisture, crumbs and spills can create mold in the crevices of the refrigerator door seal and around the water and ice dispenser. To discourage the growth of mold wash these areas with a solution of bleach frequently and wipe them dry.

Pollen and Other Allergens

Plants are lovely to have in your home but the moist soil can encourage mold. Place a layer of pebbles on top of the soil to prevent the release of mold spores that may be in the soil. For those that are highly allergic, removable of all house plants may be necessary.

Your shoes pick up allergens and bacteria from all the public places you have been during the day. Remove shoes when entering the house as near the door as possible. If you have a porch or mud room, shoes could be removed there before entering the house.

Keeping the windows and doors closed and the air conditioning in operation during high pollen alerts and dusty days will also help lower the accumulation of pollens and allergens in your home.