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Allergen Removal

Reducing allergens in the home can greatly improve the health of family members with allergies. Even though you cannot prevent all allergens from entering your home, there are many ways to reduce their presence by thoroughly cleaning your home frequently and purchasing air purifiers that trap airborne allergens.

  1. What are Allergens?

    • Allergens are tiny particles that cause allergic reactions such as asthma, runny nose, itchy eyes, skin puffiness or frequent sneezing. Common household allergens include dust, mold, pollen and pet dander. Reducing the allergens in your home may reduce the risk of future allergic reactions.

    Dust Removal

    • Dust is a mixture of dirt, tiny pieces of food, dust mites, insect parts, pet dander, pollen and skin cells. Remove dust from your home using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. This filter not only helps trap allergens but also prevents them from spreading while vacuuming. Vacuum high-traffic areas, especially if areas are carpeted, at least twice a week to remove dust buildup. Use furniture cleaner and a dry cloth to remove dust from tables, cabinets, television screens and lampshades. Remove items such as dried or plastic flowers that collect dust.

      Purchase protective covers for mattresses and pillows to prevent dust mite allergies. Look for protective covers with seams that have been sealed for added protection.

    Mold Removal

    • Mold is typically found in moist areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements and outdoor spaces under shade trees. Allergic reactions to mold occur when mold spores detach from mold and contaminate the air. Use a mold removal product on bath and floor tile. Perform monthly checks of pipes in bathrooms, kitchens and basement areas for any signs of mold. Clean these areas using a mold removal product or bleach. If you suspect mold is growing behind any walls in your home, contact a mold removal specialist.

    Pollen Removal

    • Pollen enters homes through open windows or doors, clothing and shoes and from heating and cooling systems. It can affect those with allergies during specific times during the year or year-round. An air purifier with a HEPA filter traps pollen and other allergens. Larger air purifiers are necessary for larger spaces, while medium and small air purifiers are effective in bedrooms and bathrooms. Follow the manufacturer's suggestions to purchase the right air purifier. Vacuum often to remove pollen particles from furniture and carpeting. Wash window treatments often. Dust your home using a dust removal product and a dry cloth. Try to keep windows and doors shut on windy and high pollen count days.

    Pet Dander Removal

    • Skin cells from pets, also known as pet dander, stick to carpeting, furniture, bedding and window treatments. Removing pet dander is similar to removing dust. Vacuum frequently and dust furniture with a dust removal product and dry cloth. Purchase an air purifier to catch the pet dander floating in the air.

    Food Allergens

    • Food allergens can cause serious health issues such as anaphylaxis, which prevents a person from breathing properly. The result, if not treated immediately, is usually death. Other health issues such as skin rash or hives, shortness of breath, nausea and headache may occur. Common food allergies include nuts and oil from nuts, milk, shellfish, soy and wheat. Avoid purchasing foods that contain these allergens if a member of your household is known to be allergic. Avoid purchasing foods processed alongside these foods as well.

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