Seasonal allergies are pretty common in Australia, with allergic rhinitis happening to one out of four Australians! It causes sneezing, runny nose, congestion, and eye itchiness, turning into a huge cause of discomfort for millions.
Generally, it’s caused by allergens and pollens present in the environment. So, the best way to deal with seasonal allergies is to enhance your home’s air quality. And if you want to do both, here are some significant tips.
1. Reduce the Entry of Pollutants
The best way to combat seasonal allergies and enhance home air quality is to ensure that you’re not introducing pollutants carelessly.
For instance, if you have houseplants, make sure they don’t give away pollen or anything that inhabitants are allergic to.
Don’t use household disinfectants that contain toxic chemicals. If you have to use any chemicals for cleaning, keep them outdoors, in the basement, or some space away from the areas you generally stay in.
Don’t use outdoor shoes at home. Tell guests to open their shoes at the doorway and wear slippers indoors. Try to change and freshen up soon after returning instead of hitting the couch or bed.
If you have been outdoors for hours, you’re covered in dust and sweat. Take a shower and clean your face and hair after returning.
2. Use a High-Efficient Air Purifier
Invest in air purifiers with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration from a reputed seller. These remove up to 99.97% of airborne allergens (such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander) of around 0.3 microns.
Choose models that can ensure good air quality throughout your room. Make sure it’s compatible with your room dimensions. Install them in the rooms you spend the most time in, including the living room, bedroom, study, and workspace.
Most people open the windows for optimal ventilation. However, during allergy seasons, it’s best to keep doors and windows closed to prevent pollen and allergens from entering indoors. You must also upgrade to pollen and allergy-blocking filter screens.
To ensure proper ventilation, invest in a ventilation system with built-in filters. Install exhaust fans in the kitchen and washrooms to prevent moisture buildup, which leads to mould formation.
Make sure you deep-clean the ventilation ducts at least once a year. It’s best to seek professional help to prevent allergies from aggravating.
4. Follow a Frequent Cleaning Routine
During allergy seasons, pollen and dander are everywhere. You can’t deter them with regular cleaning routines. Instead, you need to take extra steps to prevent allergen buildup.
For starters, wipe down all surfaces using a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid dusting with a feather duster, as that only displaces the particles for a while.
Clean the home using a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filters. This will pick up all the finest allergens and dust particles.
Vacuum and steam clean all upholstery and curtains as dust and allergen get stuck into them deep. Whenever possible, launder them. Wash your bedding once every week in warm water to kill all mites.
Too little humidity can make your airways feel dry, causing irritation in your eyes, nose, throat, and mouth. So, try to maintain 30-50% humidity levels at home.
Too high humidity causes mould and dust mite growth. If certain areas of your home experience high humidity (basement, kitchen, or bathroom), install dehumidifiers around those areas. Make sure there’s no leak or water damage to avoid unexpected moisture buildup.
Your home’s HVAC system catches dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens in the furnace filters. Clean them, especially during the allergy seasons. Change the filter at least every 4-6 weeks if anyone suffers from allergies or you have a pet.
7. Keep Pet Allergens Outdoors
If you have pets, groom them regularly to prevent them from shedding dander everywhere. Brush them regularly and give them a bath as required based on breed and environmental needs.
Wash their paws and wipe their entire body with a damp cloth before entering the home after a stroll to prevent dust and pollen from entering indoors.
While your pet is your best friend, try to keep them away from your bedroom or don’t let them climb the bed.
Besides following these, regularly track air quality in your locality and try to stay indoors when it’s too high. Use a mask while stepping out. Remember to follow these tips regularly, and you’ll lead a healthier life with fewer allergy attacks.