Spring is almost round the corner, and already Britons are rushing to the shops to buy hayfever tablets. Itchy eyes and runny noses are becoming a clear sign of the warm season, appearing sometimes even before the first spring flower.
But is it truly hayfever? Could it be triggered by some harmless, but yet annoying, allergens in your home? Ultimately, as we come to the end of winter, we are starting to turn our heaters down. Less heat doesn’t only mean less cost. It also reduces air dryness, which means that allergens, that were perhaps in your home all along, can travel in the air more easily!
Allergies affect millions of people across the UK, with common triggers including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. According to Allergy UK, an estimated 21 million people in the UK suffer from allergic conditions, with hay fever affecting up to 49% of adults, and pet allergies impacting nearly 40% of households. Dust mites, often found in carpets and upholstery, are a leading cause of allergic reactions, contributing to respiratory issues and discomfort year-round.
Creating an allergy-friendly home environment requires thoughtful choices, from improving air quality to selecting materials that limit allergen buildup. Here are four key ways to reduce allergy risks at home.
1. Improve Air Quality
Clean air is essential for minimising allergy symptoms, especially for those sensitive to pollen, dust, and pet allergens. Investing in a high-quality air purifier with HEPA filters can help trap airborne particles, reducing exposure to allergens. Maintaining proper ventilation by opening windows during low-pollen hours and using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms can also prevent mould and dampness, both of which aggravate allergies. Making small changes to enhance air quality can significantly impact overall well-being.
2. Reduce Dust with Flooring Upgrades
Carpets, while common in British homes, are notorious for trapping dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens. Replacing carpets with quality laminate flooring provides a sleek, low-maintenance alternative that doesn’t harbour allergens. Unlike carpets, laminate flooring is easy to clean with a simple sweep or mop, significantly reducing dust buildup. For allergy sufferers, this switch can make a noticeable difference in air purity and overall health.
3. Use Smart Vacuum Systems
Regular vacuuming is essential for managing allergens, but traditional vacuums can sometimes stir up dust rather than eliminate it. Smart vacuum systems, such as Roomba and other robotic vacuums, provide an effortless way to maintain cleanliness. These automated devices can be scheduled to run daily, ensuring floors remain dust-free even when you’re at work or asleep. Opting for a vacuum with HEPA filtration further enhances efficiency, capturing microscopic allergens and preventing them from recirculating into the air.
4. Prioritise Upholstery Cleaning
Soft furnishings, including sofas, curtains, and cushions, are often overlooked but can accumulate significant amounts of dust and allergens. Regularly cleaning upholstery with specialist vacuum attachments or steam cleaning can remove trapped allergens effectively. For deep cleaning, professional services offer a thorough refresh, ensuring allergens are properly eliminated. Additionally, choosing washable cushion covers and regularly laundering bedding can contribute to a cleaner, allergy-free home.
Making simple yet effective changes within your home can drastically reduce allergy risks. From improving air circulation to opting for hypoallergenic flooring, these adjustments promote a healthier indoor environment, making everyday life more comfortable for allergy sufferers.
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