Clean Those Allergens Right out of Your Home

By Donna Stark

When you have seasonal allergies, it can be hard to bring yourself to head outdoors, much less open a window. But secluding yourself inside won't help either if you allow the dust, dander, and pollen to pile up inside your home. So unless you enjoy those itchy and watery eyes, those violent sneezing and coughing fits, or that never-ending runny nose, you need to know how to effectively clean your home. Here are some great suggestions.

Create a Schedule

Those lucky people who never suffer from seasonal allergies may be able to push their chores and house cleaning to the side, but if you aren't one of them, you need to stay on top of all the triggers that reside with you. It's important to maintain a consistent cleaning schedule so that your home doesn't become the source of your misery. Try to clean your home throughout the week and delegate tasks to other family members so that the burden isn't placed on your shoulders only.  

Vacuum Regularly

Keep your vacuum within reach and use it regularly, especially if you have pets! Aim to vacuum at least twice a week and don't overlook your furniture in the process! It is also recommended that you choose a vacuum that can use a HEPA filter. This type of filter is designed to trap those smaller than small particles of pollen, dust, and dander.

If you don't have carpets and live with hardwood or tiled floors, try to be mindful of how you sweep because brooms can often scatter more dust than what they actually remove. If you can, choose a hardwood vacuum for these areas in your home.

Dust Weekly

Just like a broom, many dust brushes will scatter and spread allergens around your home instead of picking them up, so it is best to use a microfiber cloth for all of the areas that need to be cleaned. The ultra-tiny fibers found in these cloths can literally pick up anything, no matter how small, and an added benefit that comes from using them is that they will save you money. Just throw them in the wash for the next time you need them!

Wash Bedding Weekly

OK, I know you don't want to think about what you are actually sleeping with every night, but it's important to know so that you can reduce your allergy symptoms! Your sheets will eventually collect human and pet hair, dander, pollen, and those nasty little dust mites if they aren't laundered at least once a week. So make it a habit! And reduce more of those allergy triggers by using a fragrance-free detergent.

Breathe Free!

By following these cleaning tips, you can help create a trigger-free zone for yourself and all of your loved ones; now, if only Mother Nature would do the same for you too!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Woodbury, Minn.