Home Help: Protecting Against Allergies – It’s nice to think that you’re keeping your home as clean as possible, which is no easy task if you’ve got children and pets! No matter how clean you think it may be, it can be a hub of bacteria and allergens. So if you’ve found yourself in a constant cycle of sneezes and sniffles, and can’t seem to figure out why, maybe it’s time to turn your attention to your home. Although it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact area that’s aggravating your allergies, there are certain steps you can take in order to minimise the risk to you and your family.
Make your bed allergy-proof
It is common knowledge that you should be washing your sheets as often as time allows – once every fortnight seems to be a common rule that many live by. However, if you’re serious about cutting out allergy-inducing dust and dirt from within your bedroom, you should aim to clean them in hot water at least once a week. Dust-proof bedding also offers additional protection from allergens, alongside other preventative measures such as keeping your bedroom clean in general – and keeping your pets off the bed.
Be wary of house plants
While having plants inside your home can add a refreshing burst of colour, and of course help to keep the air clean, some can do more harm than good. Many species of flowers, no matter how good they look, have a high pollen count which can do more harm than good. If you are still adamant on having plants in your home, look into which plants are the worst for allergies
and avoid at all costs. Place your plants in areas with good circulation, which prevents mould from forming.
Invest in a new vacuum cleaner
Everyone knows that vacuum cleaners are a common reason for allergies to flare up. Old vacuums can be especially damaging, as they can release fine dust and debris that’s built up over years of use. Investing in a high-quality vacuum cleaner helps to keep airborne allergens at bay, and mitigates the risk that your carpet poses to your health. Vacuums with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter are most people’s go-to choice when serious about stomping out allergens within their home.
Get rid of carpet altogether
It’s no secret that carpets are a breeding ground for bacteria and dust. No matter how clean you think you’ve managed to keep it, there’s always something hidden below the surface and invisible to the naked eye. The fibres trap dust and dirt, making it especially problematic when it comes to allergies. Many people remove their carpets and opt to pair hardwood flooring with a rug. A
rug is much easier to clean and much smaller than carpet, and looking after your wood floor is as simple as a brush and vacuum. Plus, the added elegance and durability of a wooden floor is unbeatable!
There are many ways to prevent allergies becoming a serious problem in your home. By staying on top of your cleaning and making some changes (big or small), you can protect you and your families.
Debz Louise is a plus-size blogger based in Yorkshire. Behind many nationwide campaigns such as #WeaAreTheThey & winner of Best Blogger at the UK Plus Size Awards, she talkas about life as a plus-size 40-something woman in South Yorkshire.
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