Anyone with allergies or asthma wants to live in a safe and allergen-free environment. Your home should be a sanctuary where you can breathe easily and enjoy optimal health.
The team at Regional Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Center offers the following tips and strategies for making your home allergen-free.
Regular cleaning is key to reducing allergens in your home. Clean your carpets and rugs frequently using a vacuum that is equipped with a HEPA filter to trap dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens.
Wash bedding, curtains, and upholstery in hot water weekly to eliminate allergen buildup. You should also dust surfaces regularly with a damp cloth to prevent allergens from becoming airborne.
Maintaining proper indoor humidity levels can help prevent the growth of mold and dust mites. These common allergens thrive in moist environments. Try to maintain an indoor humidity level between 30% and 50% by using a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements and bathrooms.
Fix any leaks or water damage promptly to prevent mold growth.
Protect your bedding with allergen-proof covers. They create a barrier against dust mites and other allergens. You can find these covers made of tightly woven fabric for mattresses, pillows, and box springs. Wash bedding regularly in hot water to further reduce allergen exposure.
Pet dander can be a major allergy and asthma trigger. You can still have pets, but take steps to minimize their impact on your indoor air quality. Bathe and groom pets regularly to reduce dander, and designate pet-free zones in your home, such as bedrooms or upholstered furniture.
Use high-efficiency air filters in your HVAC system to trap airborne allergens. Remember to replace these filters regularly. You might also benefit from an air purifier with HEPA filtration to remove allergens and pollutants from the air.
We recommend you keep windows closed during peak pollen seasons to prevent outdoor allergens from entering your home.
When you’re worried about your indoor space, you have to consider your outdoor landscaping as well. For your yard, choose low-allergen plants, such as ferns, palms, and flowering shrubs, and keep grass trimmed short to minimize pollen production.
Consider using mulch or gravel instead of traditional grass lawns to reduce pollen exposure. These strategies can lessen the amount of pollen, grass, and other allergens that get into your home through open doorways and windows.
If you or a loved one continues to experience allergy or asthma symptoms despite your best efforts to keep your home clear, don't hesitate to seek professional help from our team at
We have offices in Kingsport and Johnson City, Tennessee, and Abingdon, Virginia. Reach out for more personalized care and treatments to help you breathe easily.
