Home Remedies to Keep Allergies at Bay
Going outside in the spring is already a drag when you have allergies; you shouldn’t have to worry about sneezing or watery eyes in your own home. Fortunately, with a little know-how, you can minimize allergens in your space. Here are some home remedies for allergies:
Vacuum, Dust, and Wash
The easiest home remedy for allergies is to stay on top of the housework. Regularly vacuum carpets where pet dander, pollen, and dust mites tend to accumulate. Don’t forget to wipe down headboards and bedside tables to keep nighttime sneezing and stuffy noses to a minimum. If your allergies are especially bad, you might even replace rugs or carpets with hard flooring. Once a week, thoroughly dust your house and wash all bedding in hot water.
Close Windows and Doors
It’s tempting to let in fresh air to try to clear out trapped allergens, but you’re much more likely to let in pollutants and allergens this way than to get rid of them. Take note of and utilize any exhaust fans.
Use Air Purifiers
In addition to keeping your HVAC system running well, consider installing air purifiers with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. These capture and remove allergens and pollutants so that you can breathe easily. Set reminders to clean your air filters as directed by the manufacturer regularly.
Manage Pets & Pests
The easiest way to minimize your exposure to pet dander is not to keep pets in the home, but let’s be honest: For many of us, their companionship makes the trade-off worth it. You can reduce discomfort by designating “pet-free zones” in your home, such as bedrooms and sofas, and regularly grooming your pets. Regularly vacuuming and washing your pets’ bedding and crate will also help minimize exposure to hair and dander.
And if you need more motivation to keep your home free of pests like rodents and roaches, here you go: Not only can they cause damage, but their bodies and droppings can also be allergens.
Keep Things Dry
Moist environments are great incubators for mold and mildew. Be careful not to overwater any indoor plants, and if you keep an aquarium, change the water regularly to prevent algae growth. If parts of your house tend to get especially steamy, consider using a dehumidifier. Ideally, the humidity in your home should be at most 50%.
Go Fragrance-Free
When possible, choose simple household detergents and products. Many cleaning sprays, for example, can be replaced with DIY cleaning products, such as a simple water and vinegar solution. Some chemicals may cause allergic reactions, and if you must choose, go with the less irritating product over the extra scent every time.
Unpredictable Texas weather can mean year-round allergies for most; fortunately, adding local honey to your vitamin lineup can help!
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