Allergy Symptoms: Nothing to Sneeze At

House dust is everywhere. People with dust allergies suffer the most inside their own homes. The worst part is that the act of trying to keep the house clean only exacerbates symptoms. Traditional dust cleaning such as vacuuming with a regular filter, sweeping and feather dusting can stir up dust particles, making them easier to inhale.

There are many ways to keep symptoms under control. To start, cutting clutter will help minimize the need for dust cleaning significantly. Unsightly piles of boxes, magazines, clothes, etc., trap and hide dust mites and are difficult to keep clean.

Vacuum a couple of times per week using a HEPA Filter.
Vacuuming with a regular filter won’t eliminate dust mites. Some allergens in house dust are so tiny they can be sucked up off the floor and projected out into the air. Only a HEPA filter will provide proper filtration and cleaner air.

Wear a disposable face mask.
A mask will filter out some of your exposure to house dust.  Another option is to use an air conditioner when it is hot or use an air purifier to filter the air. When the work is finished, spend some time out of the house and take in some fresh air. Leave your shoes at the door when you re-enter your house. Also, be sure to sweep or vacuum outside entryways A cleaner path to your front door will allow for less dust or pollen to be tracked into your home.

Wash stuffed toys and linens in hot water.
The water temperature needs to be at least 130 degrees to kill dust mites. This will clean and sterilize sheets, blankets, throws and for children with allergies, washable stuffed toys. To avoid trapping pollen and mold in your freshly cleaned sheets, don’t hang your laundry outside to dry. Use a clothes dryer.

Be sure to keep your bathroom free of mold as well by regularly scrubbing the tile and shower curtain. Some curtains may be machine washable.

Some other common mistakes allergy-sufferers make are to shampoo carpets or use scented cleaners that only add to the irritation. Leftover moisture from a wet carpet can cause mold growth and possibly add to the dust problem. Washable rugs that can be put in the clothes washer are a convenient option.

The best way to minimize allergic reaction to house dust is to avoid all chores that aggravate your symptoms. Ask a less allergic family member help out or hire a cleaning service.