How to Get Rid of Dander In-Home

When you have pet allergies, your beloved Fido can make your home a house of misery. Your pet's hair and saliva are allergy-causing culprits, but an animal's dander -- or dead skin cells -- often causes owners with allergies the biggest problem. Dander can accumulate in your furniture, bedding, and even your children's stuffed toys. Dander particles are tiny and can remain airborne for long stretches of time, according to the Mayo Clinic. If giving up Fido is not an option, here are some tips for keeping your home free of dander.

Things You'll Need

• Vacuum
• HEPA filters
• Cheesecloth
• Pet grooming tools

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Instructions

Reducing Dander

• 1

  Wash your pet weekly. If washing your pet causes allergies, have a family member claim the chore. Don't wash your pet indoors.

• 2

  Do not allow your pet on your bed or furniture. This helps keep areas where you sleep or rest dander-free.

• 3

  Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier. HEPA filters help to eliminate the amount of dander that circulates in the air.

• 4

  Keep your pet outdoors when possible. If your pet causes you significant allergies, making a comfortable habitat outdoors for your dog can decrease the amount of dander left inside your home.

• 5

  Always wash your hands after petting or playing with your dog.

• 6

  Vacuum your floors daily. If you have allergies, wear a face mask while vacuuming to prevent the inhalation of dander. When possible, have a family member vacuum for you. Also wash any area rugs frequently.

• 7

  Replace your flooring if you have severe allergies, and clean underneath the area thoroughly. According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, if you want carpet in your home, get carpets that are low to the ground. Wood flooring is a better choice.

• 8

  Put cheesecloth on air-conditioning vents to help stop the circulation of dander in the air.