If you have allergies, you’re all too familiar with the symptoms: sneezing, watery eyes, itchy throat, and a runny nose. But what you might not know is that almost half of all allergy sufferers are allergic to something that’s not even outdoors. That’s right: indoor allergens can be just as bad—if not worse—than their outdoor counterparts. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the five worst indoor allergens and what you can do to fight them.
Mold and mildew
Mold and mildew love damp, dark places—and your home has plenty of those. Basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms are all prime real estate for mold and mildew growth.
To fight mold and mildew, keep these rooms as clean and dry as possible. Use a dehumidifier in damp areas such as basements, and promptly repair any leaky pipes or fixtures. If you see mold or mildew growing anywhere in your home, immediately scrub it away with a bleach solution.
Pets
For many people, pets are members of the family—but they can also be a significant source of indoor allergies. If you’re allergic to animals but don’t want to get rid of your furry friend, you can do a few things to lessen the allergic reaction.
First, keep pets out of bedrooms and other areas where you spend a lot of time. Second, bathe pets regularly (at least once a week) to help remove pollen, dander, and other allergens from their fur. Finally, invest in a high-quality air purifier to help remove pet allergens from the air in your home.
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Dust mites
Dust mites are tiny creatures that thrive in warm, humid environments—such as your bedding. These little critters feed on dead skin cells shed by humans and animals, which means they’re practically impossible to get rid of completely. However, there are some things you can do to minimize their presence in your home.
First, wash bedding in hot water (130 degrees Fahrenheit) at least once a week to kill dust mites on contact. Second, encase pillows and mattresses in dust-proof covers—this will create an environment that’s uninhabitable for dust mites. Finally, vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to capture dust mites before they have a chance to spread around your home.
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Cockroaches
Cockroaches aren’t just disgusting—they’re also one of the most common indoor allergens around. These pests thrive in dirty environments and can often be found lurking in kitchens and bathrooms.
To keep cockroaches out of your home, practice good hygiene habits such as wiping up spills immediately and keeping food stored in sealed containers. You should also regularly vacuum floors and clean under appliances where cockroaches like to hide. If all else fails, call an exterminator to eliminate any cockroaches that have already made themselves at home in your house.
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Pollen particles from outside
Even if you don’t have any plants inside your home, pollen from outdoor plants can still find its way inside through open doors and windows—and once it’s there, it can wreak havoc on allergy sufferers. To keep pollen at bay, invest in some high-quality air filters for your furnace and air conditioner unit—this will help trap pollen particles before they have a chance to circulate throughout your house.
Additionally, try to keep windows closed as much as possible during peak pollen season, and vacuum regularly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. By taking these simple steps, you can help reduce the number of indoor allergies caused by outdoor pollen.
Final thoughts
Indoor allergies are caused by various substances—some of which might surprise you. In this blog post, we’ve looked at five of the worst indoor allergens: mold & mildew, pet dander, dust mites, cockroaches, and outdoor pollen particles. Fortunately, you can take steps to fight back against each one of these allergens. By following the tips outlined above, you can take control of your indoor allergies and breathe easy once again. Thanks for reading!
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