Ways to Allergy-Proof Your Home

Allergy season is here for most of the country, which means that the war on allergens once again takes place on two fronts: inside and outside. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to minimize the toll allergens can take on the comfort of your home.

Put Your Best Foot Forward

You may not initially think of your feet as a source of allergy problems, but by walking out in nature, you may be literally walking allergens into your home.

Double up on doormats

Having a doormat outside your home will help catch dirt and debris you have carried with you, and a second mat inside acts as a backup. Utilizing this strategy can help to eliminate most of the debris tracked throughout your home.

Isolate your shoes

It’s best to keep any shoes you wear during spring away from the rest of your home. Keep them in a mudroom, or store them on a rack in the garage. That way, nothing gets tracked into your house. To go the extra mile, be sure to clean your shoes more frequently.

Don’t Overlook Your Decor

Believe it or not, being intentional with the fabric in your home can make a difference in your allergies.

Wash your curtains

Curtains are hot spots for allergens, especially with windows often being open come spring. Wash your curtains as often as possible—or better yet, swap them out for blinds, which can be much easier to clean than fabric.

Invest in easy-to-clean furniture

Likewise, upholstered furniture can be difficult to clean and tends to hold on to dirt and debris easily. It’s better to utilize furniture that will be less of a hassle to clean, such as leather. Can’t afford brand-new furniture? You could instead shop for allergen-blocking sofa slipcovers and mattress covers to breathe easier.

Clean Up Your Act

Everybody in your household, humans and animals alike, should partake in more frequent cleansing to wash away allergens.

Bathe your pets

If you have a four-legged friend in your home, odds are they’re even more excited to be out and about than you are. Unfortunately, their fur is an excellent allergen trap, which means they’re bringing allergens home with them. Be sure to bathe them regularly to combat this.

Bathe yourself

Yes, you know to do this; however, being intentional with your showers or baths can help. If you’re outdoors for any length of time, you’re bringing allergens inside with you. Regardless of whether you worked up a sweat, bathe after you get in, or at least before you go to sleep, so you don’t leave allergens on your furniture and bed.

Clear the Air

Allergens are often invisible to the naked eye, but technology can even the playing field and make your home more comfortable.

Use air purifiers

If you have serious allergies that flare up in the spring, consider buying an air purifier, preferably one with a HEPA filter for maximum effectiveness, to remove pesky pollutants lingering in your home. This can be especially useful if you have pets.

Close your windows

Sure, most people like opening their windows and letting a refreshing spring breeze into their home. However, in doing so, you’re allowing allergens to stream in as well. Keep your windows closed as often as possible to prevent this. As a bonus, you’ll also prevent humidity from entering your home, which can cause mold.

Spring can be a time of joy but, if you suffer from allergies, also a time of struggle. Before you start experiencing itchy eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing, take control of your situation. You may not be able to eliminate your allergies, but by making a few adjustments to your home and lifestyle, you can lessen their impact and savor the season more.