The majority of the population’s allergy sufferers are currently sniffling and sneezing their way through springtime. Pollen is the leading cause of springtime allergies, but mold and dust mites in the home can also cause the all-too-familiar watery, itchy eyes and drippy nose. While you can’t avoid encountering allergens when you leave home, you certainly can take steps to keep your house as free of allergens as possible. Just follow these tips:
- If possible, remove all carpeting in favor of hardwood, tile or linoleum. If not, vacuum each week using a vacuum cleaner equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter and shampoo the carpet as often as is practical.
- Keep windows and exterior doors closed during pollen season.
- Install HEPA filters in your home’s air conditioning system and change them out regularly.
- A cooler, dryer home is less habitable to mold and dust mites. Keep your air conditioning as cool as your utility bills allow and keep humidity levels no higher than 50 percent.
- When you return home after spending time outdoors, take a shower and wash your clothes.
- Zip your mattresses and pillows into dust mite-proof, waterproof covers. Wash your bedding in hot water at least once per week.
- Limit upholstered furniture in favor of materials that are easier to clean, such as wood, leather, metal or plastic.
- Wash your curtains regularly. If they’re not washable, dust them to the best of your ability.
- Turn on the exhaust fan while you shower to reduce moisture. Wipe down the tub, shower stall and sink after use to keep the bathroom as dry as possible.
- Wash your children’s stuffed animals in hot water on a regular basis.
- Prevent your pets from entering your bedroom. Bathe them each week to reduce the amount of dander floating around your home.
- Move your potted plants outdoors or give them to a friend. If you wish to keep them inside, pour some aquarium gravel over the dirt to help contain mold spores.
Get even more peace of mind knowing that your house is covered. Call Key City Insurance at 866-466-2109 for more information on Victorville home insurance.