Have you ever met a single person who has said to you, “Spring is my favorite season, because I just LOVE pollen.” Whether we like it or not, (and believe me, we don’t) pollen is descending rapidly upon us here in Louisiana. If you deal with allergies, what can you do?
If you’re allergic to pollen, your first instinct may be to stay indoors. However, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) states that the air inside our homes may be 10 times more polluted than outside air. Of course, if you’re only allergic to pollen, you’re in the clear. But what if your allergies are still bothering you and you’re staying inside?
When cleaning, avoid using a feather duster, since most of the allergens are thrown into the air instead of trapped. The best thing to use is a damp cloth when dusting. Clean furniture and curtains weekly with a vacuum that has tight seals and seams, as well as an often-replaced HEPA filter. Wipe down blinds or wash your curtains monthly. If you personally deal with allergies and have to do the cleaning, wear a dust mask while cleaning, then leave the house for an hour or so to let any remaining allergens settle.
Dust mites are a huge contributor to indoor allergies. To keep their numbers down, bare floors and walls are best, especially in the bedroom. Plush or shag carpeting is a wonderful host for dust mites, so consider other options. Throw rugs or low-pile carpeting will reduce the amount of allergens your home can contain. Most importantly, put zippered allergen barriers on your pillows, mattresses and box springs. Wash all the bedding weekly, including uncovered pillows and stuffed toys, using hot water above 131 degrees to assure mites and their eggs are killed.
Air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and air filters can all contribute to allergen reduction, but remember to change the filter regularly. Of course, keep windows and doors closed. Air conditioners should be set to recirculate. Pay particular attention to cleaning areas near often-used entrances.
Whether you spend it indoors our out, have a wonderful, sneeze-free spring!
We hope this was helpful. If you have any questions or if you know of a senior that could benefit from our vast array of home care services in Baton Rouge, please call us at 225.819.8338 or email us. Most long-term care insurance policies will reimburse us for our services and we have a team of over 200 bonded and insured CAREGivers covering the Baton Rouge, Louisiana area.
Related articles
- 10 Ways to Eliminate Home Allergens (apartmentguide.com)
- House Dust Mites and Allergies (healthadel.com)
- Should I Get Allergy Shots? (webmd.com)
