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!

On our radar: Briiv Air Filter

Briiv air filter

We’ve had a couple of lovely sunny days over the Easter period. With all this recent sunshine, I’ve noticed the huge number of particles in the air when beams of light shine through the bedroom Velux window in the morning. Dust, dog fur, dander, wood-burner emissions, mould spores and goodness knows what else. I dread to think what we’re breathing in as we sleep!

I looked online into gadgets that clean the air and discovered the Briiv Air Filter; what a beauty. The company describes it as, “The most sustainable, recyclable air purifier on Earth”. The unit is fitted with two filters which last for a year; one is made of moss and the other coconut fibre. It looks like a mini terrarium – more of a houseplant than a household appliance!

Of course, like any 21st century smart home device worth its salt, the Briiv Air Filter connects to your wi-fi and can be controlled using an app on your smartphone.

It currently retails at £329 which is a huge outlay, but they claim that it only costs £3.64 per year to run (based on the device being switched on for 6 hours per day).

Top 5 essentials for a healthy and clean house

Top 5 essentials for a healthy and clean house | H is for Homecredit

Our homes are our sanctuaries. The ultimate goal is to have a home that promotes wellness, relaxation and cleanliness for us, our households, families and visitors.

Here are 5 great tips for achieving a clean and healthy house, free from toxins and other harmful chemicals.

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1. Get that clean and fresh air

The air we breathe indoors can easily become filled with dust and unwanted particles that can irritate our breathing, skin, eyes and overall quality of life.

There are many ways you can attempt to keep the air you breathe fresh and clear of allergens and dust particles:

  • Remove your outdoor shoes on entering the house
  • Place a doormat in front of each door to avoid bringing mud, dust and dirt indoors
  • Add house plants to help purify the air naturally
  • Use an air purifier. These can be especially useful for individuals with asthma or other breathing complications.

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2. Use a skip

Using skips to dispose of filth and maintain cleanliness in the environment is one of the most eco-friendly and convenient means of disposing of waste.

Particles of dirt may not be detectable to the eye; the longer your waste stays in your space, the unhealthier your environment becomes. With skips, you can throw away your debris and be sure that it’ll be handled and transported carefully out of your area. And, it’s not complicated at all. Simply visit https://www.sheridanskips.co.uk/skip-hire/ where you can hire same day skip services for both your home and your business.

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3. Use natural cleaners

You’d think that spraying and spritzing your home with all of these cleansers on a daily basis would keep it toxin-free, but many products contain harsh pollutants and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be as harmful to health as smoking!

The simplest way to ensure that your house is chemical-free is to replace your current cleaners, polishes and detergents with a range of healthier, more natural cleaning products.

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4. Substitute plastic containers

We’re all aware of the environmental hazards that plastics pose. However, its convenience doesn’t prevent us from stocking our refrigerator and cupboards with plastic storage containers.

Plastics, in fact, are hazardous to our health and that of our families. Phthalates (plasticisers) are found in all plastics and are harmful to the brain’s endocrine, neurological and developmental areas.

We expose our meals and the air we breathe to these harmful compounds whenever we reheat food in these receptacles. This is why it’s vital to promote healthy eating by using glass, stainless steel or other environmentally friendly materials instead.

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5. Keep your mattress fresh

We all wash our sheets and pillowcases regularly, but what about the mattresses?

Grubby or old mattresses can easily become repositories for collected dust particles, mites and other allergens that can evoke all kinds of allergies, breathing problems, skin irritations and overall low quality of sleep.

Keep your mattress fresh by vacuuming it each time you change your sheets. You can use deep-cleaning options at home or professional help to get a refreshed mattress.

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Natural cleaning remedies you need to try

Natural cleaning remedies you need to try

If you were to look at your current cleaning products and read what’s actually in them, you’ll find an incredibly long list of chemicals. Some of which can be pretty toxic. More and more people are turning towards natural remedies; they’re cheaper, better for you and are a great eco-friendly alternative. You’ll be happy to know that your kitchen cupboard already contains more natural cleaning remedies than you think.

Baking soda in a jar with wooden spoon

Baking soda

You may already be aware of using baking soda for cleaning. After all, you can use it in pretty much any room of your house. From scrubbing your bathroom and unclogging drains, to loads of laundry and carpet cleaning. Baking soda is such a versatile ingredient and it’s great at getting rid of odours and stains.

Bottle of vinegar, spreay bottle and ladle in front of a potted plant

White vinegar

White vinegar is another great, multi-purpose product. You can use it to get rid of mildew, mould and stains. If you’re worried about the smell, you’ll be happy to know the smell fades pretty quickly or you can add a couple of drops of your favourite essential oil. You can also use white vinegar to create your very own all-purpose cleaner. Use equal parts vinegar and water, then add a few drops of essential oils to offset the smell. Or you could use citrus rinds for a lovely, fresh, scent. As with all cleaning, make sure you wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.

Lemon, lime, baking soda, essential oils, clothes pegs and pile of towels

Lemon juice

Citrus is not just for scent. Lemon juice is an incredible cleaning product. There are so many different ways you can clean your home with lemon juice. You can add sparkle to your stainless steel, get rid of grease from your microwave and even clean your entire oven. Thanks to the natural acidity of lemon juice, it lends itself to being used for cleaning. Plus, its versatility means it can be mixed in with other natural cleaning remedies.

Pile of salt crystals

Salt

Salt is such an everyday kitchen ingredient – it’s mainly used for cooking and seasoning food. However, you can also use salt to help you clean your home. Salt is a mineral that does a fantastic job at helping you scrub off dirt. You can use it to clean grimy pans and get rid of rust. Also, when you combine salt with baking soda or vinegar, it boosts the cleaning effects.

Natural soap, scrubbing brush and cleaning cloth

Castile soap

You possibly won’t find this last product in your kitchen cupboard, but when it comes to sorting out natural cleaning remedies there’s no other product quite like Castile soap. It’s a plant-based soap. You can use it to clean your home, as well as yourself.

Changing up your cleaning cupboard and embracing natural products not only saves you some cash, but it’s also much better for the environment. Do you use any natural cleaning products that you’d recommend?

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