How to Reduce Allergens in Your Home

Allergens are tiny particles that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. They can be found in the air, on surfaces, and in food. While you can’t completely get rid of allergens, there are things you can do to reduce their number and severity.

If you have allergies, the best thing you can do is to avoid exposure to the things that trigger your symptoms. But sometimes avoidance is not possible or practical. Even when you’re at home, you may be exposed to allergens from dust mites, pets, pollen, and mold.

In these cases, there are steps you can take to reduce your exposure and make your symptoms more manageable. Here are some tips:

Keep your home clean– Dust mites are one of the most common indoor allergens. They live in dust and thrive in warm, humid environments. To reduce their numbers, vacuum your floors and upholstered furniture regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner. Wash your bedding in hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit) every week. And dust surfaces with a damp cloth or mop.
Use an air purifier- An air purifier can help remove allergens from the air in your home. Look for a model with a HEPA filter. The best air purifiers in Boise have a pre-filter to remove larger particles, such as pet hair and dust. You can also try an air purifier with activated carbon, which can help remove odors and chemicals from the air.
Keep the humidity low– Dust mites and mold both thrive in humid environments. Use a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in your home below 50%. This will not only reduce the number of dust mites and mold spores, but it will also make your home more comfortable.

Keep your home cool– Mold grows best in warm, moist environments. So, keeping your home cool and dry will help to prevent its growth. Set your air conditioner to 78 degrees or higher and use a fan to circulate the air. When it’s humid outside, use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air.
Keep pets out of the bedroom– If you’re allergic to pet dander, it’s best to keep your pets out of your bedroom. This will help to reduce your exposure to allergens while you sleep. If you can’t keep your pets out of your bedroom, consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter.
Use allergy-proof covers– Allergy-proof covers can help to reduce your exposure to dust mites and other allergens. They are made from tightly woven materials that don’t allow dust mites or other particles to pass through. Look for covers for your mattress, pillows, and comforter.
Keep windows and doors closed– During pollen season, keep your windows and doors closed as much as possible. Pollen levels are usually highest from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m., so it’s best to stay indoors during these times. If you must go outside, wear a face mask and take a shower as soon as you come home to wash the pollen off your body.
Get an allergy test– If you’re not sure what you’re allergic to, see an allergist for skin or blood testing. Once you know what your triggers are, you can take steps to avoid them. The allergist may also recommend immunotherapy, which can help reduce your sensitivity to allergens.
Take medication– If you can’t avoid your allergens, there are medications that can help relieve your symptoms. Antihistamines can help reduce sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Nasal corticosteroids can reduce congestion, inflammation, and mucus production. And if you have asthma, you may need to use an inhaler to relieve your symptoms.
See your doctor– If your allergies are severe, you may need to see a doctor for treatment. He or she may prescribe stronger medications, such as oral corticosteroids or immunotherapy shots. The doctor may also recommend avoiding trigger foods or taking steps to desensitize your body to allergens.