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Cutting down on in-home allergens

Many people suffer from allergies to many different things, with common reactions such as sneezing, wheezing, itchy eyes, coughs and skin rashes.Some allergens originate from outside the home, such as pollen or traffic fumes, yet there are a whole host of allergens which are lurking and breeding right under your nose inside your home.These can induce uncomfortable symptoms in both adults and children, particularly runny noses and wheezy coughs.

There are many simple things you can do to cut down on in-home allergens, improving the health of your family immensely and preventing their immune system from being constantly attacked.

Mould and mildew
This can contaminate the air in cold rooms and cause chesty coughs and runny noses.Keep the room temperature above 61 degrees to avoid mildew from growing.Also be aware of excess humidity which can cause mould and mildew to multiply.If your house is particularly humid, keep it well ventilated by opening windows or invest in a dehumidifier.If you\'re having your carpets steam cleaned it\'s important to make sure you keep your house well ventilated afterwards to ensure thorough drying out.

Dust allergens
Carpets especially as well as curtains trap a lot of dust which can blight the lives of allergy sufferers, especially those with asthma.Invest in a vacuum cleaner which has a HEPA filtration system that prevents dust from simply being blown back into the home.Dust regularly, particularly above any doorways or on top of appliances, as well as blinds and fans.

You can also invest in an air purifier to filter the air inside the house of internal and external allergens, as well as helping to reduce airborne diseases.

Bedroom allergens
Did you know there could be up to 2 million dust mites in your bed at any one time?It\'s a fact that many allergies start in the bedroom, in mattresses, pillows and duvets.Encase pillow and mattresses in allergy-proof covers and avoid under bed storage which may collect dust.Regularly vacuum your mattress and make sure you turn it and air it regularly.Wash sheets at least once a week on a hot wash to get rid of dust mites.

Pet Hair
Your pet may be your best friend but their fur can cause havoc for allergy sufferers.Keep them off the furniture and have your carpet regularly cleaned.It may also help to wash your dog at least once per week to reduce the amount of dust and loose hair he or she leaves around the house.