Creating an allergy-friendly home involves a combination of strategies to minimize allergens and irritants. Here’s a guide on what to buy, replace, or store to help create a healthier living environment:
- Allergy-Proof Bedding:
- Buy: Encase mattresses, box springs, and pillows with allergen-proof covers.
- Replace: Replace old pillows and mattresses if they cannot be adequately encased.
- Store: Store extra bedding in allergen-proof containers when not in use.
- Flooring:
- Buy: Choose hard flooring options such as hardwood, tile, or laminate, which are easier to clean and less likely to trap allergens.
- Replace: Replace carpeting with hard flooring, especially in bedrooms and living areas.
- Store: Store area rugs in a dry, clean area and wash them regularly.
- Air Purifiers:
- Buy: Invest in high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters for air purifiers to capture airborne allergens.
- Replace: Replace air filters in HVAC systems regularly.
- Store: Store spare filters in a clean, dry area until needed.
- Cleaning Supplies:
- Buy: Choose hypoallergenic or natural cleaning products to reduce exposure to harsh chemicals.
- Replace: Replace old or expired cleaning supplies.
- Store: Store cleaning supplies in a designated area away from living spaces.
- Pets:
- Buy: Consider hypoallergenic breeds if you have pet allergies.
- Replace: Replace pet bedding regularly and bathe pets frequently.
- Store: Store pet supplies in a designated area away from bedrooms and living areas.
- Window Coverings:
- Buy: Install washable curtains or blinds to minimize dust accumulation.
- Replace: Replace heavy drapes with lighter fabrics that are easier to clean.
- Store: Store extra curtains or blinds in a clean, dry area.
- Mold Prevention:
- Buy: Use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels and prevent mold growth.
- Replace: Replace moldy or water-damaged materials such as carpets, wallpaper, or ceiling tiles.
- Store: Store items in moisture-proof containers in damp areas like basements.
- Pest Control:
- Buy: Use non-toxic pest control methods such as traps or baits.
- Replace: Replace worn weather stripping and seal cracks to prevent pests from entering.
- Store: Store food in airtight containers to deter pests.
- Furniture:
- Buy: Choose furniture with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces.
- Replace: Replace old or damaged furniture that may harbor allergens.
- Store: Store extra cushions and upholstery in allergen-proof covers when not in use.
- Personal Care Products:
- Buy: Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic personal care products.
- Replace: Replace expired or contaminated products.
- Store: Store personal care products in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.
Creating an allergy-friendly home involves a combination of purchasing new items, replacing old ones, and storing items properly to minimize allergens and irritants. Regular cleaning and maintenance are also essential to keep allergens at bay.