A clean home is important for health and wellbeing . However , many common household cleaning products and practices can introduce or stir up allergies that provoke allergy and asthma symptoms . With some adjustments to your cleaning routine , you can remove dirt , germs , and allergens for a healthier indoor environment glossyglamourista.
Use Vacuums with HEPA Filters
Ordinary vacuums which spread allergens like dust mites & pollen through the air once you clean . HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters trap 99 .97% of particles 0 .3 micrometres or larger including allergen particles . Look for vacuums which are specialty certified for Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI) “Green Label” program which are sealed by HEPA filters. Ensure they properly fit & no suction is lost around thes edges .
Regular Vacuum with HEPA vacuum cleaner which easily removes allergens from carpets , upholstery , drapes & other textiles . Focus on the rooms used most often , like bedrooms and family rooms . Vacuum areas where dust collects , such as under beds , furniture , and radiators . Hard floor surfaces like wood or tile can be vacuumed too .
Change HEPA filters regularly as recommended by the manufacturer to keep your vacuum working effectively . Clean or replace brush rolls and belts when needed so they don’t spread allergens .
Dust Properly
Dusting seems simple , but many traditional methods just stir up allergens into the air . feather dusters move dust around without trapping it , while dry dusting cloths and electrostatic cloths can spread allergens .
Instead , use microfiber cloths dampened with water to trap and remove dust . Wipe surfaces gently to avoid kicking up allergens . Focus your dusting on places allergens accumulate , like ceiling fans , window sills and blinds , upholstered furniture , and electronics .
For a deeper Residential Cleaning Services Boston , use a vacuum attachment on upholstery before wiping down with a damp microfiber cloth . Clean dust-collecting décor like curtains frequently . Change your furnace and AC filters regularly .
Use Mops and Cloths Liberally
When mopping floors or wiping down countertops , go over the surface more than once with a well-wrung mop or cloth to effectively trap and remove allergens and grime . Avoid using the same mop or cloth throughout the house , which can spread allergens from room to room . Use clean clothes for kitchens , bathrooms , common areas , and bedrooms .
Choose gentler cleaners like diluted dish soap or all purpose cleaners. Labelled “sensitive” over harsh chemicals like bleach & ammonia which can worsen allergy & asthma symptoms . Look for products with EPA’s Designed for the Environment labels which meet all standards as safer ingredients .
Let surfaces air dry instead of wiping with a towel , which can re-deposit allergens . Allow extra time for floors to dry completely to avoid mold growth .
Clean Mold and Mildew Thoroughly
In damp areas like bathrooms , mold and mildew can trigger allergy and asthma symptoms . Kill and remove mold rather than just wiping down visible spots , which allows it to continue growing behind walls or under surfaces .
Mix equal parts water and either bleach or vinegar in a spray bottle . Vinegar is a natural disinfectant , while bleach is stronger for severe mold issues . Protect your skin and eyes , ventilate the area , and allow the mixture to soak into the moldy area for 10-20 minutes before scrubbing clean .
Fix any moisture issues like leaks or humidity to prevent mold regrowth . Clean and disinfect shower curtains , tile grout , windowsills , and other damp spots regularly . Dehumidifiers and ventilation fans help keep moisture under control .
Wash Bedding Frequently
Your bed collects allergens like dust mites , pet dander , and body oils as you sleep . To limit exposure , wash sheets , pillowcases , and blankets once a week in hot water above 130°F and dry thoroughly on high heat .
Use mattress and pillow covers sealed with zippers andclaim “allergen impermeable” to block allergens from accumulating in your bedding . Vacuum mattresses and wash pillows a few times per year .
Limit stuffed animals , upholstered headboards , and ruffled dust-collecting bedding . Remove carpets and fill flooring gaps to reduce harboring dust mites and other allergens . Keep pets off beds to reduce transferring allergens .
Clean Pet Areas
Pets carry allergens like dander , hair , and saliva that stick to surfaces all over your home . Brush or bathe pets regularly to control loose hair and dander . Keep pets with long fur or hair clipped short .
Vacuum upholstery , carpets , and floors at least twice a week in pet areas using a HEPA vacuum . Wipe hard surfaces with microfiber cloths to remove dander and hair . Use high-efficiency extractor vacuums on carpeting to deep clean below the surface .
Wash pet beds , crates , and toys weekly to control allergens . If you have forced air heating or cooling , change filters often and consider high-efficiency pleated filters to capture pet allergens . Avoid letting pets into bedrooms so you have an allergen-free sleeping space .
Clean After Renovations
Remodeling projects like painting , woodworking , or new carpet installation introduce lots of dust and debris . This construction dust contains allergens and irritants that stir up allergy symptoms .
After finishing renovations , clean the space thoroughly before moving back in . Start by vacuuming walls , ceilings , carpets , furniture , HVAC vents , and everywhere dust has settled . Mop hard floors with aCleaner labeled “allergen removing” that traps particles .
Change out furnace filters and AC filters since they capture extra construction dust . Wipe down countertops , cabinets , and other surfaces . Clean drapes or replace with easy-to-clean window blinds . Add doormats to help prevent tracked-in allergens from hardwood or tile projects .
Conclusion
Dust , pet dander , mold , and other common allergens can collect rapidly in your home . But you can remove these asthma and allergy triggers by regularly cleaning with HEPA vacuums , microfiber cloths , and other products that trap allergens rather than spreading them around . Taking steps to control moisture , wash bedding frequently , and clean after renovations also helps reduce allergen exposure so you can breathe easier .
Focus cleaning where you spend the most time and where allergens accumulate the most . Simple changes make your cleaning routine more effective for removing allergens , irritants , and asthma triggers . With routine thorough cleaning , you can have a healthier , more comfortable home environment .