The Allergy Files (pt. 1)
The weather has warmed up, and as the region starts to open up, we are all venturing out (or starting to) a little more. Hooray! But what’s with the sheen of yellow and green dust that is coating my car, and why are my eyes itching so much lately?
Whether you are an indoor or outdoor allergy sufferer, year round or seasonally, the experts agree that avoiding allergens is the best way to avoid an allergic reaction (sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, itchy skin and eyes, etc.). That sounds pretty simple and obvious, right? What may not be so obvious are some easy steps, along with aggressive cleaning at home, that can be taken to make a significant difference in making you feel better:
Keep your home clean and dry. More about the “clean” part in the next few points. “Dry” because moisture can lead to mold.
Use a dehumidifier where needed as air purifiers in the areas of the home that you spend the most time in (think home office and bedroom).
Dust mites love bedding and pillows (ew!). Get your pillows and bedding (sheets, blankets, duvet covers, etc) laundered as much as possible. Some recommendations say as often as once a week! There are some brands of hypoallergenic bedding and mattresses out there but be sure you are not allergic to the latex and other materials used.
Change your clothes as soon as you come home from spending any amount of time outdoors. Your clothes track in allergens. Don’t sit on the couch or lay in bed without changing first!
Don’t wear shoes inside your home, for the same reason as above. Your shoes will track in allergens.
Vacuum, dust, and repeat, as much as possible.
As an allergy sufferer myself, I can tell you that proactively avoiding allergens and keeping my home clean has helped tremendously. Send me an email at seminarycleaners@gmail.com if you want any brand recommendations on what I use (i.e. air purifiers).
-Jules