More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. If allergies are a problem for you, then keep reading. This guide will offer you some great suggestions on how you can make your home more hypoallergenic.
1. Allergy Resistant Flooring
The type of flooring you have will significantly affect the amount of allergens present in your home. Carpet holds on to a great deal of allergens that could be affecting your family. Even with regular vacuuming, getting rid of trapped allergens is difficult. Consider great wool rugs, tile, laminate, or hardwood flooring that’s easy to clean.
2. Filtration Systems
While it’s important to change your air filters regularly and to choose HEPA air filters that reduce allergens, adding an air filtration system to your home can help further reduce the amount of allergens in your home. Be sure not to get a filtration system that produces ozone, which is known to aggravate asthma and allergy sufferers.
3. Reduce Allergens
Many allergens come into your home from outside. To reduce the allergens coming into your home, you can not wear shoes inside, change your clothes before sitting on furniture, and enter your home through an entrance that has tile, laminate, or hardwood flooring.
4. Less Upholstered Furniture
Opt for less upholstery in your home. Like carpet, upholstery can trap allergens. Leather, vinyl, and wood are good options for reducing allergens. You can also use hypoallergenic coverings for furniture, mattresses, and pillows to reduce the amount of allergens.
5. Humidity Control
Humid air promotes mold growth and creates an environment for allergens to multiply. Excessively dry air irritates the airways and allergies. Dehumidifiers are great for damp areas like basements, while humidifiers can be helpful in other areas of the home. If you’d prefer a whole-home solution, consult with an HVAC professional to find out what options are available to you.
6. Choose Gas
There’s a certain charm that comes with a wood-burning fireplace or stove, but they’re not so great for allergy sufferers. The smoke and burnt matter tend to severely impact allergies. Choosing a gas fireplace eliminates the need for wood, which is a major allergen for many.
7. No Fabric Curtains
Curtains are a great way to soften the look of a room, control light, and provide privacy. But curtains are notorious for housing dust and allergens. Consider opting for blinds or shades instead of curtains. If you can’t envision your home without curtains, you must wash them frequently to reduce allergens.
8. Mold-Resistant Materials
When remodeling or building your home, be sure to include mold-resistant materials. Mold is an allergen that can cause a lot of trouble for those who are allergic to it. Including these materials in your homes can make a big difference in your comfort level.
9. Start Fresh
A new build isn’t always feasible but starting fresh is a great way to gain the upper hand on allergens in your home. New homes are less likely to house mold, dust, and allergens. Modern building materials are also more allergy-friendly.
While it’s nearly impossible to keep a home completely allergy-free, there are some steps you can take to minimize the amount of allergens that are in your home.
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