If you're like me and suffer from allergies, then you know how miserable you can feel from seemingly innocent sources like dust or mold to countless triggers inside your house. Though you won't be able to stop the problem, you'll be more equipped to manage your symptoms if you take proper precautions.
Invest in a high-efficiency air conditioner or a unit for a room where you can go when the weather gets hot instead of opening windows. Keeping those windows closed will prevent letting outdoor irritants in such as tree pollens, flowers, and grass to flow in.
Another air conditioner benefit is that it helps stop indoor mold and mite growth if the humidity level stays below 40%. To find out how much moisture the air in your house has just go to your hardware store and buy a cheap tool for about $6.00 called a hygrometer, which measures the levels.
Here's something important you also might want to consider the next time you buy furniture. Those prone to allergies are better off choosing leather, wood, metal or plastic pieces if possible because they are easier to wipe clean than fabric couches and chairs. If, however, you want that upholstered set make sure that you can pick up one with washable, removable slipcovers so they can be cleaned more often.
Carpeting is not ideal for anyone with severe allergies. In fact, new carpeting can cause a bounty of new pain for those unfortunate sufferers from all the unseen vapors that escape from some synthetic fibers. Regardless, vacuuming often helps if your home is carpeted. A cyclonic machine (like a Dyson) or the variety with a micro-pore or high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, can help remove particulates and allergens.
Avoid cluttering up your bedroom especially with too many cloth items where airborne allergens love to attach themselves. For instance, cushioned headboards, an upholstered chair, throw pillows, heavy draperies, hanging clothes on the back of your door, a wicker basket where more clothes seem to land, etc. are bad ideas. A simpler bedroom with less is best. Blinds are also a better choice.
Use allergen-resistant covers on your mattress, box spring, and pillows to help control allergens more. Labels with "perspiration-vapor transmission" are the best because they breathe and sweat so that mold can't grow.
Avoid feather pillows and down comforters on your bed as well. Also, it is a good idea to stick to cotton sheets instead of synthetic materials when you make your bed.
Wash your bedding weekly in hot water and any comforter, the mattress pad and the blankets monthly.
These are just a few suggestions to help you feel better with allergies. Trust me, I know what it feels like to hurt from them and wanted to share.
