If you have asthma, allergies, or other allergy-related complications at home, allergens can come from virtually anywhere. Dust, pet hair, spores, and mites can linger freely among your belongings and create an environment that is a trigger for environmental allergies. To top it off, the constant risk of contracting COVID-19, allergens can raise the risk of pre-existing respiratory issues.

In addition to seasonal allergies, many people suffer from chronic environmental allergies caused by common household allergens. The reality is that millions of people all over the world suffer from year-round or seasonal allergies brought about by relentless indoor allergens.

Common symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

  • Itchy, watery eyes
  • Irritated skin (hives, rash, dermatitis)
  • Nasal congestion
  • Asthmatic symptoms (coughing, wheezing)

In this article, we’ll cover some basic ways to remove and reduce the effects of household allergens.

Prevent mold build-up.

Mold can be a stealthy invader, creeping in without causing immediate distress but potentially posing serious threats to the respiratory system. As long as the environment is moist and warm, mold doesn’t care where it grows.

Below are some of the most favorable locations in the house for molds to build up:

  • Bathrooms (tubs, showers, sinks)
  • Kitchens (dishwashers, faucets)
  • Crawlspaces
  • Attics
  • HVAC systems

Make sure to keep moisture at bay in your home by running your air conditioning system consistently and using dehumidifiers in indicated areas. In addition to keeping the house clean and dry, you should also keep indoor air flowing by ensuring there are adequate window screens and that vents are not obstructed.

Vacuum your carpets.

When you vacuum at least 2 to 3 times per week, you reduce the amount of allergens (i.e. pet dander, dust, mites, and spores) in your home. A vacuum with a HEPA filter will clean allergens and dust particles from your house. Ensure the filter is also regularly changed to ensure allergy-friendly living.

Do not forget your furniture as well. Crumbs left in between the cushions can attract mites, cockroaches, and other household pests. When neglected they are also prone to fur and dust buildup.

Some of the most effective ways to remove allergens from your couch include:

  • Using a specially formulated lint brush for pet hair
  • Use your vacuum’s crevice tool for any deep corners and seams
  • Sprinkling your couch with baking soda (leave it on for 20 minutes and then vacuum it up)
  • Washing couch covers regularly
  • Steam-cleaning

A Quick Note:

Does steam cleaning remove allergens? The short answer is: yes. Steam kills mites and dislodges dust and major allergens that plague the furniture and carpet.

It is advisable to have a deep steam cleaning at least two to four times a year, depending on the severity and frequency of your allergies.

Dust frequently.

Use a warm cloth, microfiber cloth, or static dust wand instead of a traditional feather duster. Feather dusters are a thing of the past. Instead of picking up and removing dust, they tend to spread dust around and further propagate allergens.

It is best to dust as often as you vacuum, which should be at least two to three times a week. Focus on darker parts of the house, i.e. baseboards, inside entertainment stands, vents, ceiling fans, and both large and small electronic appliances.

Regularly clean your bed sheets.

Cleaning your bed sheets in hot water, once a week, does wonders for controlling allergens and ensures that your bedroom is clean. Getting a good cleaning by soaking in hot water will get rid of most existing dust mites, pollen, and pet dander.

Washing your bedding regularly is an important habit that can help you get the week off to a good start.

Let Green Cleaning DFW help keep your house allergen-free!

Having family members or yourself prone to allergens exposes you to respiratory and COVID-19 risks. If you avail of our residential cleaning services, we at Green Cleaning DFW will not let that happen. Our experienced team cares about our customers’ comfort and well-being. Our cleaning services involve non-toxic and eco-friendly cleaning products that will leave your home disinfected and allergy-free! We are currently serving the cities in Dallas Fort Worth, Texas, including, but not limited to: Rockwall, Heath, Fate, Royse City, Caddo Mills, Poetry, Lavon, Wylie, Sachse, Rowlett, Garland, and Forney. Give us a call at (972) 836-8199 today or fill out our convenient contact form to receive a free quote.