If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!
If you or a loved one suffers from common allergy symptoms or even has asthma, you know that there are many triggers found in your home. However, you no longer have to be victimized by allergies. With a few simple home improvement projects, you can be on your way to reducing allergies and living a healthier life.
Having wall to wall carpeting is the number one allergy trigger found in people. This brings about the question, why? Carpets are the culprit when it comes to attracting allergens such as mold spores, pet dander, dust mites and other things that you may not have even thought of. Vacuuming and washing carpet fibers is not enough because oftentimes these allergens are sitting deep enough not to be washed out. The best way to deal with this is to remove the carpeting and install hardwood floors instead. Hardwood flooring costs about the same as carpeting and reduces allergy triggers, as well as providing an easier surface from which to clean spills and messes.
Heavy drapes may be appealing to the average home owner, but they in fact are the perfect storage place for dust mites that trigger allergies. Washing drapes is not enough and even if thoroughly cleaned, not all dust mites will be eliminated. The best way to deal with this problem is to remove heavy drapes and install stylish blinds instead. Blinds made from bamboo and wood add a lovely feel to any home and can be easily vacuumed and wiped clean.
Most bathrooms unfortunately suffer from the same problem- the lack of a vent. Not having vents installed creates a thriving environment for mold and mildew to grow. Mold easily grows in dark, damp, humid places as well as areas with low air circulation. This describes most bathrooms, may they be new or old. You can easily eliminate this problem by installing a vent. If you don’t have the money to install one or the expertise to do so, consider purchasing a dehumidifier that is also as efficient, but much more cost effective.
Everyone is familiar with mold in one form or another, and almost all households have experienced mold growth in some way. This can create an unhealthy environment and trigger allergies even in those who are not usually so sensitive. The best way to deal with mold growth is to eliminate it properly when it happens by hiring a professional and taking preventative measures. Mold thrives in dark and damp environments. This describes basements, garages, bathrooms and kitchens. Treat these areas with mold killing paint, add ventilation and seal off any leaking areas, especially in the basement.
Your pillows, comforters, bed linens and box spring mattresses attract dust mites that thrive off of shed scales from the human skin. Most everyone’s allergies are easily triggered by these microscopic culprits, so it is time that you took a stand. Wash your bed linens, comforters and pillows often in hot water as cold water won’t kill the allergens. Your box spring mattresses should be covered with an airtight cover to ensure that there are no allergens coming in or going out.
Give allergies a fight by eliminating the many ways allergens can hang around in your home. Use what you have learned within this article to create a healthier living environment without having to sacrifice your wallet. Most tips are common sense and easily carried out without much trouble.
Technorati Tags: reducing allergies, mold killing paint, home improvement
