Do you suffer from seasonal allergies?
Did you know that Spring cleaning could be just what the allergist ordered?
More than 40 million Americans suffer from allergy problems. After a long winter of being stuck inside, it’s important to clear your house of lingering dirt, dust and mold. Spring cleaning can reduce, and even remove some allergens. Here are a few tips to clean effectively:
- When dusting, use moist cloths or special dry dusters designed to trap and lock dust from hard and soft surfaces.
- Certain cleaning products can also contribute to airborne irritants, especially if they contain harsh chemicals, strong odors or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Choose products that contain none of these irritants, but also beware of “green” labels, as some of these solutions may be made with natural allergenic ingredients, such as lemon, coconut or tea-tree oils.
- Use a Certified vacuum that has a high efficiency filter with tight seams and seals to prevent particles from leaking out while you vacuum. Also, choose a style that requires minimal exposure during canister emptying or bag changes.
- Whether you have a cat or dog, pet dander is present in most U.S. homes. If it is possible, keeps pets out of the bedroom. If not, your cleaning routine should include frequently washing linens in your bedroom, where cat or dog dander can settle.
- Place Certified allergen-barrier bedding on your mattresses and pillows. Wash your bedding at least once a week in 130+ degree hot water to kill mites and their eggs.
- Mold, a common allergy trigger, can grow anywhere in your home where moisture is present. Look for cleaning products that help kill and prevent mold from returning. Also, keep household humidity below 50 percent and fix leaky pipes and cracks to reduce standing puddles of moisture where mold can prosper.
- If children live in your home, look for Certified plush toys. Dust mites, mold and pet dander can accumulate on plush toys over time. Certified toys can be placed in the freezer for 24 hours, then rinse in cold water to remove dead mites, and dry completely. Do this monthly.
In addition to reducing allergens in your home, Spring cleaning can also:
- Provide your family with a healthier living environment.
- Reduce stress and renew your calm by removing clutter.
- Be a form of cardio exercise
Spring-cleaning is a great way to improve your living environment while boosting your mental moral and physical health. It’s the time of the season!
Homemade cleaning products:
White Vinegar
Did you know that white vinegar is a natural deodorizer? It absorbs odors instead of just covering them up. It can be used in the kitchen, bathroom, or on hardwood flooring.
Just mix these two ingredients in a spray bottle:
1 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
Rubbing Alcohol
Did you know that rubbing alcohol could replace windex?
Just mix these 3 ingredients in a spray bottle:
1 cup (isopropyl) alcohol
1 cup water
1 tbsp. white vinegar