Developing allergies is down to various factors. Unfortunately, meadows are not the only places where pollens are found: living in the city center or close to busy roads is also a risk factor. The good news is that there are some small things you can do to reduce indoor allergens.

1. Detox your home

Unfortunately, allergens can invade your home or any other closed spaces, for that matter. As we spend most of our time indoors, detoxing the spaces is of crucial importance. Smog, smoke, dust, mist and mold at home all contributed to the fact that, according to statistics, every single family has at least one allergic or possibly asthmatic patient. Moreover, everyday chemicals (furniture vests, deodorants' volatiles) may also cause allergic reactions to many people. So, as a first step, air purification is definitely recommended: try to use as few chemicals as possible, and also try not to smoke in the house because by smoking inside you do not only risk your own health but also the health of others.

2. Get rid of mold

Mold loves a cool, damp place; it mainly grows in bathrooms and can cause a variety of health effects if we don’t do anything about it. Besides leaving the door open and often ventilating the room through the window, it is also worthwhile supporting the drying process with a fan. Also, the regular cleaning of the sink, bathtub and toilet is of crucial importance, since it is easier to keep an eye on an ever-clean home.

3. Change the air fresheners

Despite smelling great, air fresheners are not the healthiest thing ever. They contain chemicals called "Volatile Organic Compounds" that can cause respiratory problems and headaches in people who are sensitive to such chemicals. Use natural incense, scented candles, and in winter you can also use dried orange peel.

4. Keep the shower curtain clean

The shower curtain is also a home to many pathogens due to constant moisture. That's why regular cleaning and replacement is important, and it might be worth getting the pricier but higher quality curtain.

5. Cover your furniture

Often times it’s the mattress, the quilt, and even the pillow that are dusty. The best defense against them is to wash the bedding regularly (weekly) at a high temperature and to cover the furniture (sofa, bed) with microfibre covers.

6. Create a pet-free zone

In 2011, a study proved that those cat owners who did not allow their pets into their bedroom were much less likely to develop fur allergies. Yes, pets are cute and fluffy but try to keep them away from your bedroom or a child’s room.

7. Do regular deep cleans

Although many of us only do a deep clean every 3-4 months, homes with pets, toddlers or allergic people require a deep clean more often than that. Be thorough – wash the tiles, dust those toys, vacuum the carpets, clean every corner since it’s very hard to identify what causes allergies.

8. Get an extractor fan

A quality extractor fan is a must when it comes to clean air. In addition to clearing the air from harmful substances and moisture, it reduces the risk of cancer, too.

9. Keep your fridge clean

Cleaning the fridge is something we all do from time to time but we rarely think about all the dirt we put in there. It is best to clean all the vegetables and fruits prior to putting them in the fridge, but products with plastic packaging can also be cleaned with a damp cloth. It is advised to seal perishable foods, for if any of them get moldy, the fridge and all the other foods can get moldy very easily.

10. Clean your curtains

Curtains can be home to almost everything from dust mite to fungi so be sure to clean them regularly.

11. Get a HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

HEPA stands for “High Efficiency Particulate Air Filter”. What it does is it forces air trough a fine mesh that traps harmful particles such as pollens, dust mites and tobacco smoke – and it’s extremely energy efficient.

12. Get the temperature right

Regular monitoring of temperature and humidity can be very important in the home of those suffering from allergic reactions and / or asthma. Small children are at a higher risk of developing allergies. In a cool, damp place, the wall gets moldy easily, and unfortunately, dust mites also enjoy such an environment - and if these unpleasant “pets” take up residence, anyone can develop an allergic reaction. In a warm, humid environment we are more inclined to gain weight, too. Fortunately, there is a thermometer in almost every household, but it is also worth getting a so-called "hygrometer" (humidity meter). Though there are pricey versions, a basic hydrometer is not a huge investment. The ideal humidity of a home is between 35-50%.

• allergy allergy-proof asthma clean health home tips

---

Share this article.