How to Reduce Indoor Allergens

Indoor allergies can be triggered by a number of causes, including dust mites, pet dander, mold and mildew and even cockroaches, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America's (AAFA) website. Symptoms may include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose, skin irritation and lung irritation. Unlike seasonal allergies, which usually peak in the spring and fall, indoor allergies can be triggered at any time. To reduce indoor allergies, you must identify allergy triggers and properly remove or prevent them.

Instructions

• 1

  Choose allergen-proof coverings for your mattress, box springs, and pillows. For other bedding, select only items that can be washed in hot water, suggests the AAFA. Wash these items weekly to remove allergens.

• 2

  Wash pets weekly. This may reduce the amount of pet dander in your home, according to WebMD. Keep your pets off the furniture and out of your bedroom.

• 3

  Vacuum and dust weekly. Choose a vacuum with an allergen-reducing filter and dust furniture and other items with a damp or allergen-trapping cloth. Keep surfaces uncluttered so that they are easier to keep clean.

• 4

  Choose hard flooring such as wood, laminate or tile, if possible. Carpets and rugs tend to retain dust mites and pet dander. If you prefer to use carpet or rugs, the AAFA recommends choosing low-pile carpet and washable rugs.

• 5

  Keep the humidity level in your home below 60 percent. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, molds cannot grow at this level of humidity. Humidity can be reduced by using dehumidifiers, fans or other ventilation techniques.

• 6

  Keep doors and windows closed. This keeps out pollen and helps to reduce mold and dust mites by controlling the humidity, according to the AAFA. Make sure to change the filters regularly in heating and air conditioning units.

• 7

  Treat cockroach infestations. WebMD reports that dead cockroaches and cockroach feces are allergy triggers. If you suspect a cockroach infestation, clean infested areas thoroughly and treat your home with pesticide or contact a professional to do so.

• 8

  Talk to your doctor if your symptoms continue. He can prescribe medication or allergy shots to help relieve your symptoms.