4 Ways to Allergy-Proof Your Home

If you or a family member suffers from airborne allergies, certain times of the year, like the spring and summer, can trigger symptoms such as watery eyes, hives, and itchy skin. While there’s no way to stop allergic reactions altogether, certain preventive steps can help reduce their severity.

At the Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center in Hillsborough and Annandale, New Jersey, allergy, asthma, and immunology specialist Edwin P. Schulhafer, MD, regularly educates patients on simple but effective ways to allergy-proof their homes. Keep reading for four simple tips that can make a big difference.

What causes allergic reactions?

Allergic reactions occur when your body’s immune system identifies a benign substance, such as pet hair or pollen, as a dangerous invader. 

This kickstarts the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which bind to allergens and cause your immune system to release chemicals, like histamine, leading to allergic symptoms such as skin rashes, sneezing, and a runny nose.

How to allergy-proof your home

Allergy symptoms make you miserable, but the good news is that you can fight back. Here are four effective tips for getting started:

1. Clean regularly

Homes are filled with allergens, including dust mites, pollen, and dirt. If you have pets, the risk is even greater since dogs and cats shed regularly. Thankfully, ensuring your house is spic and span can help keep these threats at bay. 

Vacuum regularly, wash curtains and blinds frequently, and wipe down counters and other dust-collecting surfaces. For even better results, use cleaning agents that effectively eliminate germs. One study found that children who live in homes regularly cleaned with bleach are less likely to have asthma, eczema, and indoor airborne allergies. 

2. Maintain clean air

Airborne allergens, like mold and dust, can easily spread from room to room via air ducts and vents. You don’t want to cut off airflow entirely — no one likes a stagnant home — but you can minimize the spread of allergens (and, in turn, reduce allergic reactions).

We recommend installing high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles. Similarly, maintain good ventilation, especially in damp areas like the bathroom and kitchen. This can help prevent mold buildup and keep the air inside your home breathable. 

3. Control humidity

It may not seem like it, but New Jersey has a mild subtropical climate, so it gets quite humid, especially during the warm summer months. Research suggests humidity increases the risk of allergic reactions, so maintaining proper moisture levels inside your home is crucial. 

One of the easiest ways to do this is with a dehumidifier, which can help reduce mold and mildew growth. If you don’t want to shell out the money for a new appliance, keeping your windows closed during humid weather can be equally beneficial. Running a fan or the air conditioning instead of cracking a window can help you stay cool.

4. Create a comfortable sleep environment

Nearly 90% of American bedrooms have three or more detectable allergens. To keep these triggers to a minimum, try wrapping your pillows and mattresses in allergen-resistant covers. In addition, have your pets sleep in a different room. These two small changes can reduce the amount of allergens in your bedroom and help you sleep more comfortably. 

We can help reduce allergy triggers

Airborne allergies are microscopic, but they can have a major impact on your quality of life. If you’re tired of using over-the-counter solutions, don’t wait to seek professional help. Contact the Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center to request allergy treatment. Call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.