Fall is the perfect time of year to open the windows and air out the house! Sounds like a great idea, however, this can cause some problems for fall allergy sufferers in your home. It can start stir up some pesky allergens that may bother your kids. SO how about a few tips to keep these allergens at bay.
There are an array of things that can trigger an allergy attack in your home including dust mites and mold.
Working fulltime and raising three boys, I know how hard it is for busy families to find time to clean (my least favorite thing to do). But spring is the best time to get a jump on controlling indoor allergies.
Start with washing all bedding at least once a week. Throw your linens in water at least 130 degrees. Place dust mite covers on mattresses and pillows. While changing sheets, vacuum the mattress as well.
Carpeting harbors plenty of items, so if there is someone very allergic, consider replacing carpets with hard surfaces such as hardwood or tile. By doing so, this can eliminate as much as 90% of dust mites. If you can't live without carpet, think about buying low pile not shag.
Get rid of any mold! Mold is caused by moisture and can hide in your kitchen, bathroom and basement. Keep things as dry as possible to avoid any mold build up.
One thing many people miss? Turn on the ventilating fan or open a window in the bathroom. Try to keep humidity below 50%. Too much moisture is a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
I know how much families love their pets (we love our yellow lab Maggie and treat her like a member of the family). But Maggie and your pet can track pollen into your home from the outside. Also, many children can be allergic to pet dander. Here's a trick: wipe your pet down with a dryer sheet! It will pull the dander and any loose pollen off your pet.
Spring and fall cleaning means de-cluttering, so go ahead and box up those knickknacks. They are very decorative but are a magnet for dust.
And, check your air filters. Every 1st of the month, clean or replace your air conditioner, furnace or dehumidifier filter. It will inhibit dusty air from circulating throughout your home.
Try these tips and let me know how it works out for your family. I'd love to hear from you.
That's' your hot topic for today from The Kid's Doctor staff.
There are an array of things that can trigger an allergy attack in your home including dust mites and mold.
Working fulltime and raising three boys, I know how hard it is for busy families to find time to clean (my least favorite thing to do). But spring is the best time to get a jump on controlling indoor allergies.
Start with washing all bedding at least once a week. Throw your linens in water at least 130 degrees. Place dust mite covers on mattresses and pillows. While changing sheets, vacuum the mattress as well.
Carpeting harbors plenty of items, so if there is someone very allergic, consider replacing carpets with hard surfaces such as hardwood or tile. By doing so, this can eliminate as much as 90% of dust mites. If you can't live without carpet, think about buying low pile not shag.
Get rid of any mold! Mold is caused by moisture and can hide in your kitchen, bathroom and basement. Keep things as dry as possible to avoid any mold build up.
One thing many people miss? Turn on the ventilating fan or open a window in the bathroom. Try to keep humidity below 50%. Too much moisture is a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
I know how much families love their pets (we love our yellow lab Maggie and treat her like a member of the family). But Maggie and your pet can track pollen into your home from the outside. Also, many children can be allergic to pet dander. Here's a trick: wipe your pet down with a dryer sheet! It will pull the dander and any loose pollen off your pet.
Spring and fall cleaning means de-cluttering, so go ahead and box up those knickknacks. They are very decorative but are a magnet for dust.
And, check your air filters. Every 1st of the month, clean or replace your air conditioner, furnace or dehumidifier filter. It will inhibit dusty air from circulating throughout your home.
Try these tips and let me know how it works out for your family. I'd love to hear from you.
That's' your hot topic for today from The Kid's Doctor staff.
