20 FEBRUARY 15, 2018 RIDGEWOOD TIMES WWW.QNS.COM
5 house cleaning tips for allergy suff erers
Many people turn to nasal
sprays and antihistamines
to combat seasonal nasal
allergies or hay fever, but keeping the
home clean is just as important in the
fi ght against allergies.
KEEP THE OUTDOORS OUT
While it is hardvv to control exposure
to pollen and other triggers
when outside, those with allergies
can avoid bringing pollen into the
house with them. Keep shoes and
jackets limited to the entryway or
mudroom, and shower and wash hair
before bedtime to stop the spread of
pollen.
VACUUM OFTEN
One key to minimizing allergens at
home is to vacuum at least twice per
week. Start by using attachments
to clean surfaces up high, working
down to the floor. Make sure to
vacuum curtains and upholstery as
well as hard surfaces, and pay extra
attention to entryways and areas
around windows.
It's also important to select vacuum
accessories that have been designed
specifically to capture allergens.
Arm & Hammer Premium Allergen
vacuum bags are designed of synthetic
material to capture even more
allergens, dust and pet hair from
the home's surfaces. In addition, the
brand's HEPA fi lters trap particles
75 times smaller than a human hair,
including 99.97 percent of dust mite
debris, animal dander, molds and
pollen. Replace bags every couple of
months and fi lters at least every six
months.
WASH BEDDING
WITH HOT WATER
Bedding also should be a focus
when attempting to allergen-proof
the home. Sheets, blankets and comforters
attract dust mites in even
the cleanest environments. Wash
bedding once a week in hot water to
keep allergens at bay. It's also smart
to consider protective covers for
mattresses and pillows to stop dust
mites from getting in too deep.
KEEP AIR DRY
Too much moisture in the air can
help dust mites thrive, and may also
lead to mold. Using a dehumidifi er, especially
in humid climates or summer
months, can help control the spread
of mold and dust mites.
MINIMIZE INDOOR
PLANTS
While plants can build ambiance
in the home, some indoor plants can
amplify allergy symptoms by releasing
spores and other allergens into
the air. For those with a green thumb
who can't live without plants at home,
make sure to research the plants that
are least likely to increase pollen or
718-894-0400
����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������
Commercial and Residential Cleaning and Maintenance
Specialists in cleaning all types of awnings and canopies.
����������������������������������
������������������������������������������
������������������������
����������������������������������������������
����������������������������������������
����������������������������������������������
������������������������������������
����������������������������������
��������������������������������
��������������������������������������������
��������������������������������������������
��������������������������������
��������������������������������
����������������������������������������������
����������������������������
��������������������������������
������������������������������������������
������������������������������������������������
��������������������������
60-68 METROPOLITAN AVE., RIDGEWOOD, NY mold exposure indoors.
Courtesy BPT
AT HOME