Bust the Dust
If you have allergies,
then you are probably well aware of the detrimental effect dust can
have on the body. Coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, itchy,
watery eyes and even asthma attacks can be triggered by dusty air in
your home.
Not only is the
dust itself irritating to the nasal passages, throat and lungs, the
creatures found in the dust can be even more harmful. They're dust
mites, and they're so tiny that the only way to see them is through a
microscope. Many allergy sufferers are allergic to dust mites, and
being exposed to them can cause symptoms to flare up.
Here we've compiled some of
the best ways to remove and prevent dust and dust mites.
Keep your bedding clean
It's essential to dust
prevention to wash all bedding at least once a week. Sheets and
pillowcases should be removed from the bed and washed in your washing
machine. It's best to choose laundry detergent that is free of dyes and
fragrances, as such additives can irritate sensitive skin.
Remove clutter from your home
The more clutter you have
lying around your home, the more dust has to cling to. Plus, it's much
easier to do your regular dusting when your surfaces are clear.
Practice regular cleaning habits
You will want to vacuum all
carpets and upholstery, mop all floors and dust all surfaces at least
once a week. Some allergy sufferers choose to vacuum daily -- which
certainly doesn't hurt.
When dusting your furniture
there are several options available. You can use a traditional feather
duster, or you can use furniture polish and a soft cloth. There are
even dusting mitts available on the market today that you simply slip
over your hand like a glove, making the chore of dusting quick and
easy.
Avoid carpeting and upholstery whenever possible
When shopping for home
furnishings, it's best to steer clear of upholstered furniture and
choose materials such as leather, vinyl and wood. Carpets are dust
magnets, and the fluffier they are, the more dust they attract. If you
can, choose hard floors for your home.
Keep pets out of the house
Domestic pets such as cats and
dogs can greatly contribute to dust, dander and mites in the home.
People with allergies should avoid keeping pets in the home. If you
must keep your animals indoors, keep them bathed and brushed regularly,
and be extra vigilant in your vacuuming and cleaning.
Try an air filter
There are a multitude of air
filters and purifiers on the market today that can help remove dust
from your home. These air cleaners cannot replace good cleaning habits,
but they can certainly help reduce the amount of dust in the air. These
items range in price from inexpensive to expensive depending on what
type and model you choose.
Control the humidity in your
home
By using a home dehumidifier,
you can keep humidity in your home under 50% which can help reduce the
amount of dust and allergens that accumulate. You can purchase these
machines anywhere that sells air cleaners.
Don't smoke
Smoking is a major cause of
air pollution in the home. Smoking causes harmful particles that attach
to clothing, furniture and carpets. If you must smoke, do so outdoors.
If you have allergies, insist that no one smoke around you or in your
home.
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If it
is true that wars are won by believers, it is also true that peace
treaties are sometimes
signed by businessmen. -- Antoine de Saint Exupéry