Tag: allergies

Welcome guests with ease: Preparing your home for allergy sufferers

Welcome guests with ease: Preparing your home for allergy sufferers

Inviting guests into your home is a wonderful experience, a chance to socialise, share meals and create lasting memories. However, if you’re expecting visitors with allergies, a little extra preparation can go a long way in ensuring their comfort and well-being. Imagine your guest arriving, excited to see you, only to be greeted by a sneezing fit or itchy eyes. That’s easily avoidable!

Preparing your home for allergy sufferers by creating an allergy-friendly environment doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a few thoughtful steps, you can minimise common allergens and ensure your guests feel truly welcome and, most importantly, can breathe easy and enjoy their stay. This guide will walk you through the essential preparations you should make to turn your home into a haven for allergy sufferers.

Think of it as going the extra mile to show your guests you care. It’s about more than just cleanliness; it’s about creating a truly inclusive and comfortable space for everyone. So, let’s dive into how you can allergy-proof your home and be the ultimate host!

Deep cleaning is your first line of defence

Dust is a major trigger for many allergies, including dust mites. A thorough clean-up is paramount. Focus on these key areas:

  • Dusting surfaces: Dust all surfaces, from furniture and shelves to window sills and picture frames. Use a damp cloth or microfiber duster to trap dust rather than just spreading it around. Don’t forget often-overlooked spots like:
    • Light fixtures and ceiling fans: Dust can accumulate on top and then fall down.
    • Behind and under furniture: Dust bunnies love these hidden places.
    • Electronics: TVs, computers and stereos attract dust.
  • Vacuuming thoroughly: Vacuum all carpets, rugs and upholstered furniture. If possible, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. Pay special attention to:
    • Corners and edges: Dust and allergens often gather in these areas.
    • Underneath furniture: Reach under beds and sofas if possible.
    • Curtains and curtains: Use the upholstery attachment to vacuum these fabrics.
    • Mattress: Vacuum the mattress – on both sides if you can – use the nozzle attachment in corners, seams and around any buttons.
  • Washing bedding and linens: Wash all bedding in hot water (at least 130°F or 54°C) to kill dust mites. This includes:
    • Sheets, pillowcases and blankets in the guest room.
    • Extra blankets or throws that guests might use.
    • Towels and wash cloths in the guest bathroom.
  • Cleaning floors: Mop hard floors with a damp mop and an allergy-friendly cleaner. Consider steam cleaning carpets and rugs for a deeper clean if you have the time.

Dealing with pet dander (if you have furry friends)

Pets are beloved members of the family, but pet dander is a common and potent allergen. If you have pets, extra steps are needed:

  • Pet-free zone: Ideally, designate the guest room as a strictly pet-free zone for several weeks before your guests arrive. This is especially crucial if your guest is allergic to pets.
  • Thorough cleaning post-pet exposure: Even if pets aren’t allowed in the guest room, pet dander can travel. Dust and vacuum the guest room meticulously, paying extra attention to carpets, rugs and upholstery.
  • Bathe your pets: Bathe your pets a day or two before your guests arrive to reduce dander.
  • Air purifier: Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter in common areas and, if possible, the guest room to help remove pet dander from the air.
  • Inform your guests: Be upfront with your guests about having pets. They may have specific needs or medications they need to bring.

Minimise other common allergens

Beyond dust and pet dander, consider these other common allergy triggers:

  • Pollen:
    • Keep windows closed: Especially during peak pollen seasons. Use air conditioning if needed.
    • Clean air conditioning filters: Ensure your AC filters are clean and replaced regularly to trap pollen and other airborne allergens.
  • Mould:
    • Control humidity: Keep humidity levels in your home between 30-50% to inhibit mould growth. Use a dehumidifier if needed, especially in damp areas like bathrooms and basements.
    • Check for and eliminate mould: Inspect bathrooms, kitchens and basements for any visible mould and clean it immediately.
  • Strong scents:
    • Avoid strong perfumes and air fresheners: These can irritate allergies and asthma. Opt for unscented cleaning products and natural air fresheners if needed, like baking soda to absorb odours.
    • Scent-free laundry products: Wash guest linens with unscented laundry detergent and avoid using fabric softeners with strong fragrances.

    Preparing the guest room specifically

    The guest room is where your visitors will spend a significant amount of time resting and sleeping. Make it an allergy-friendly sanctuary:

    • Hypoallergenic bedding: If possible, provide hypoallergenic pillows and comforters. Consider using mattress and pillow protectors to create a barrier against dust mites and allergens.
    • Natural fibre bedding: Opt for bedding made from natural fibres like cotton or bamboo, which are often less irritating than synthetic materials.
    • Clear the closet and drawers: Ensure the guest closet and drawers are clean and free of dust or any lingering scents from storage.
    • Air out the room: If the weather permits and pollen isn’t a major issue, air out the guest room for a few hours before your guests arrive to freshen the air.

    Communicate with your guests

    Open communication is always key. Don’t hesitate to ask your guests about their specific allergies and any needs they may have. This shows you are thoughtful and proactive.

    • Ask about specific triggers: Inquire about their allergies beforehand – are they allergic to dust mites, pets, pollen, specific foods or fragrances?
    • Medications and emergency plans: Ask if they carry any allergy medications (like antihistamines or an EpiPen) and if there are any emergency procedures you should be aware of.
    • Offer alternatives: If you’re unsure about something, offer alternatives. For example, if you usually use scented candles, offer to skip them during their visit.

    By taking these steps, you are not just preparing your home; you are showing your guests that you care about their comfort and well-being. You’re creating a welcoming and inclusive space where they can relax, breathe easy and truly enjoy their visit with you. Hosting guests with allergies simply requires a bit of extra thoughtfulness and preparation and the reward is happy, healthy and comfortable visitors!

Tips to prevent allergy attacks at home

Tips to prevent allergy attacks at home

Allergy season is on the way, and if you think you’re safe from congestion, continuous sneezing and itchy, watery eyes in the comforts of your home, then you may want to think twice. Indoor air can get just as contaminated as outdoors. According to EPA, indoor air is usually 2 to 3 times more polluted than outside air. This is true, because indoor air can easily become polluted with moulds, dust, pollen, pet dander and other allergens. People with allergies, especially kids, should be wary of the danger of indoor allergens since they can cause extreme discomfort, medical emergencies and health issues.

Although we can’t eliminate allergens altogether, we can take steps to lessen and control their build-up. Below are some of the most effective ways to prevent allergy attacks at home.

Check the temperature and humidity level

Dust mites and moulds are often found in hot, humid houses. Unfortunately, these conditions serve as a breeding ground for potential allergens. The ideal temperature to prevent their growth is 68°F to 72°F (20°C to 22°C) while keeping the humidity level below 50%. Aside from this, regular maintenance of the filters in central heating and cooling systems is recommended at least once a month. Good thing there are HVAC Aurora IL professionals who can help thoroughly clean and maintain your heating and cooling systems, thorough routine checks, tune-ups, an inspection of indoor and outdoor components, repairs, replacements and much more. Getting professional care will significantly help to regularise recommended temperature and humidity levels to prevent indoor allergens.

Clean your home regularly

Keeping your home dust and allergen-free is not a one-day task. The key is to keep your humble abode clean consistently. Cleaning does not have to be done every day. You can do this simple routine at least once a week; it will do wonders for your home. To start, mop your floors using hot, soapy water. This will prevent any dust build-up on the floor. Next, vacuum carpets and rugs. Textiles are prone to allergen build-up. Also include cleaning any surfaces like tops of doors, windowsills and frames. Lastly, use a HEPA filter to filter small particles away from home.

Use UV light as a germicide

People mistakenly keep their windows & doors shut in order to prevent pollen and other allergens from entering their homes. Unfortunately, this practice generates more chances of allergy attacks. Allergens from the outside will be trapped, resulting in the circulation of pollens, dust, moulds and pet dander inside the home. Consider using UV light treatments if you’re not open to free-flowing air through the windows. This treatment is suitable for preventing allergy attacks by emitting UV rays that can destroy small particles which cause allergen build-ups.

Final thoughts

Keeping your home allergy-free is an ongoing task that starts with a consistent effort. However, you can keep on top of it by cleaning your home regularly, allowing fresh air to circulate and bringing in professional help to prevent any troublesome allergies gaining hold.

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Controlling allergies in your house this spring

Controlling allergies in your house this spring

Spring breezes are welcoming and everyone looks forward to the warmer weather. But along with it, harmful contaminants can also be floating through the air. Are you or a family member prone to suffering from allergies? If so, you may dread the change in seasons. Fortunately, with a few techniques and perhaps some help from your doctor, you can find relief. Here are just a few things that you can incorporate into your lifestyle this spring and summer when allergy triggers are out in full force.

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Do you have allergies or something else?

How do you know if you simply have a cold or if you’re having an allergic response to stimuli? Allergy triggers, such as pollen exposure, create some specific symptoms including:

  • Red, itchy, watery eyes
  • Sneezing and throat irritation
  • Nasal congestion and runny nose
  • Fatigue and headache
  • Difficulty breathing in severe cases

It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from your doctor. They’ll perform specific testing to confirm if you have allergies, and what triggers them. They may recommend avoiding exposure to certain stimuli as well as an antihistamine, corticosteroid, or other medication to help control some of the symptoms.

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Deep clean your carpets

One way to reduce your exposure to dust and contaminants is to deep clean your carpets. They hold an array of dirt and bacteria that can trigger a severe allergic response in sensitive people. This is especially true if you’re moving into a new apartment or home where you’re unsure if the previous owner had pet spills that weren’t cleaned and extracted properly. One tip would be to have a complete pest inspection in your home. Underlying infestations from fleas, bedbugs or other biting insects can trigger skin allergies. Qualified pest control in VA and other areas focuses on treating the problem and future prevention. Choosing a company who uses a natural cleaning solution is the best way to ensure that the process will produce effective, harmless results.

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Improve air quality in your home

When the plants and flowering trees start to produce flowers, many allergy sufferers retreat indoors. When the wind kicks in, it can make pollen scatter. Small particles can easily reach the inside of your house when windows and doors open. This is why sometimes the air quality in your home can be affected. Other allergens, including dust, can also create an allergic response. Spring allergies are some of the worst because if your furnace has been off for a few weeks or months and then you start your air conditioner, all of the old dust, as well as new dust particles, can quickly circulate in the air. An air filter is one way to help boost air quality and purify the air that you breathe. Air filters range from a cheap disposable filter that needs to be replaced every few months to a permanent, reusable electrostatic filter that helps trap more air particles and reduces the amount of dust and debris that gets into the air. Air purifiers also help remove allergens in the air and are a welcoming addition not just in spring, but year round.

Sunlight shining through a window showing up dust in the air

Clean your air ducts

The inside of your air ducts sees a lot of debris flow through it. It pulls air from the cold air return and then it flows through the furnace. Whether your central air conditioning unit is on or the furnace is heating the air, it all passes through the same way. During this process, it can pick up things like pet dander, bugs, mouse droppings, pollen and dust and pull it through the air ducts. These things can get trapped inside and lead to allergy triggers such as mould growth, and dust build-up. That’s why it’s important to have a professional come out and clean and disinfect your air ducts. They use a specialised vacuum that sucks out all of the debris and extracts it safely from your home. From there, the ducts are cleaned, sanitised and deodorised. The result is a fresh smelling home and fewer particles in the air.

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Consider weatherproofing

You may not be thinking about weatherproofing your home in spring, but now is the best time to make sure everything is airtight. This starts with insulating your home properly. Fill any gaps with spray foam insulation and make sure you have windows and doors that fit tightly and properly. If not, apply weather stripping. The result will help to control airflow intake that could contain pollen or other polluted materials that could trigger hay fever or an asthma attack.

Getting a grip on your allergies starts with breathing in clean air. Do your part to make your home a safe haven for your health this spring and summer.

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