How to Allergy-Proof Your Home Tips From Project Global Cure

1. How to Allergy-Proof Your Home | Tips from Project Global Cure What Are Allergies? Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a foreign substance such as pollen bee venom, or a pet dander or food that does not cause a reaction in most people. Allergy symptomsrange from mild – rash or hives, itchiness, runny nose, watery/red eyes – to life-threatening. Treatments include antihistamines, decongestants, nasal steroids, asthma medicines and immunotherapy. There could be allergies from pollens, dust mites, molds, animal dander, latex, certain drugs, foods and insect venoms. Why Is It Important To Allergy Proof The Houses We Live In? We all are aware of different types of allergies. It becomes important for us to secure our lives from these allergies and make our home allergy proof. Certain steps help us in achieving this goal and making us allergy safe. These allergies as a matter of fact are caused by allergens. As an example, to remove allergy-triggering insect and mouse residue, thoroughly vacuum carpeting and wash hard surfaces. To prevent re-infestation, seal cracks or other possible entryways. Close doors and windows during warm weather and use air conditioning and dehumidifiers. Many people with allergies stay indoors when pollen and mold is high. But dust mites, pet dander and even cockroaches can cause problems indoors. Stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and red and scratchy eyes - these allergy symptomsmean it’s time for allergy season once again. Allergies can strike at any season, both inside and outside of the house. It might seem like feeling like this is just part of season changes for seasonal allergies, or maybe you’re feeling the sniffles all year, like

2. perennial allergies. But, there are ways to remove and reduce allergens from our home. What Are Allergens? Allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions and trigger asthma symptoms in some people. The air spreads allergens around. They settle onto furniture and floors. They vary in size and are measured in microns (also called micrometers). What Are The Basic Steps To Allergy Proof In Our Homes? Remove fabric window treatments and replace with blinds that can be easily dusted. Wash all bedding in hot, soapy water once a week. Use dust proof covers on all pillows and mattresses. Remove carpeting, and wet dust hard floors regularly. Remove shoes when you come inside. Use allergen sprays. Place door mats both inside and outside all doors. Change and wash clothes after outdoor activities before sitting down on sofas, etc. Check pollen counts daily and manage your days outside around high pollen days. Use a nasal rinse to flush out allergens after being outside. Wipe pets off with a towel before they come inside. Bathe pets regularly, or use pet wipes. Don’t allow pets into the bedroom or on any bedding.

3. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning. Don't use fans, which stir up dust. Also, keep the house dry. Replace wall-to-wall carpet, if possible. Carpeting traps dust. Flooring like hardwood, tile, and linoleum is better. Use small rugs that can be cleaned easily. If replacing carpet isn't feasible, vacuum it at least weekly. Use a vacuum with double bags or a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate) filter. Cover mattresses, box springs, and pillows with plastic cases or special allergen-proof fabric covers. Avoid down pillows or comforters. Avoid upholstered furniture, which can trap allergens; try to use only wood, plastic, leather, or vinyl furniture that can be wiped clean. Replace dust-collecting blinds and long drapes with window shades or washable curtains. Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning and vacuuming. If you have pets (of course, it's better for you not to have pets if you have allergies or asthma), keep them out of the bedroom, because that's where we spend much of our time. Bathe your pets regularly, and try to keep them off upholstered furniture. Keep the house dry. Don't leave wet clothes in the washing machine, where mold can quickly grow. Wash shower curtains and bathroom tiles with mold-killing products. Don't have too many indoor plants -- especially in the bedroom. Mold can grow in plant soil. Fix any leaks or seepage at home, indoors and out. Put plastic over dirt in crawl spaces and keep them well-ventilated. Use exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom. Turn off humidifiers if you see condensation on windows. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners in basements and other areas of the house where mold tends to grow, especially in hot humid climates. Clean dehumidifiers and humidifiers every week. On concrete floors, remove carpet and use area rugs that can be lifted and washed, or install a vapor barrier over the concrete. Thus, by these steps one can have an allergy proof and asthma proof bedroom and house. So, don't let pet, dust, mold or pollen allergies make you miserable in your own home. Room by room, you can take the above mentioned steps to have an allergen-free abode! Visit Project Global Cure for more such insightful blogs.