Home | Allergy proof your home

If you or someone in your household suffers from allergies, you need to keep the house as allergen free as possible.

One in four Irish people now suffer from an environmental or food allergy with our obsession with hygiene, high antibiotic use, food additives, and rising pollution levels being linked to these rising numbers.

When allergies are a concern, it is important to stick to a regular cleaning schedule to ensure you keep dust and pet dander at bay.

There is a reason why North Americans have a no-shoe-in-house policy. Taking shoes off helps to keep dust, pollen and other nasty things from entering the house in the first place.

While heavy drapes are great for absorbing heat, they also trap dust and other allergens. Blinds or machine washable curtains are a better alternative. Curtains have the same negative as they are notoriously difficult to keep clean. Whenever possible, go with hard flooring.

If you want to keep your carpet, vacuum it regularly and deep clean with a steam cleaner.

Harsh chemicals can irritate those with allergies so always try to buy natural products.

Encase pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust-mite-proof covers. Wash sheets, pillowcases and blankets at least once a week. Remove, wash or cover comforters and  replace wool or feathered bedding with synthetic materials.

Remove items that collect dust, such as knickknacks, tabletop ornaments, books and magazines. Store children’s toys, games and stuffed animals in plastic bins.

Mold loves bathrooms. Clean this space regularly, making sure to dry off surfaces and collect standing water, and make sure it’s well ventilated. Ensure to replace broken tiles and recaulk sinks and tub every few years to discourage mold growth behind walls.

Many plug-in room air fresheners emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can exacerbate respiratory problems.

A few simple measures should help you keep allergies at bay.