3 allergy hot spots around your home

Posted: 25th May 2022 | Posted by Costa

allergy hot spots

3 allergy hot spots around your home

Dodging your allergies can feel like a full-time job. For a large chunk of the year, you can’t even step outside without fearing the dreaded symptoms. But then you stay home, keep all your windows closed, and still find yourself suffering. What gives? 

Allergens are pesky. Especially dust and mould. They could be showing up around your home without you even realising. But fear not! By learning their favourite hiding places, you can show them the door and keep your home an allergy-free zone.

Knick-knacks

Knick-knacks are great for making a house feel like a home. They’re not so great for avoiding your allergy symptoms. Dust particles love to gather around books, photo frames, or anything else you have out in the open. 

The solution? Step up your cleaning routine. Rather than dusting around your knick-knacks, take everything down and give it a thorough clean. Also, rather than using a duster – which will just move it around – try using a damp microfiber cloth to trap the dust. The extra cleaning can feel tedious in the moment, but you’ll be grateful in the long-run.

Your bed

Your bed is somewhere you spend a large amount of time. Unfortunately, it’s also a hot spot for dust mites, pet hair, or sneaky pollen – all of which could be causing you grief.

If you suspect your bedsheets are adding to your symptoms, it’s as simple as changing them more often. And always wash them at a high temperature – ideally above 60 degrees. Your mattress, duvet, and pillows themselves can also be dust magnets. So it might be worth investing in dust covers, and vacuuming your mattress on a regular basis.

Again, this might mean a little extra housework. But look at the bright side – you get that dreamy fresh sheet feeling more often!

The shower

Those black spots in your shower aren’t just an eyesore and a pain to clean. They might also be causing that tickle in the back of your throat. Mould loves warm environments, such as your steamy bathroom post-shower. And when their spores are released into the air, you can breathe them in and experience all sorts of allergy symptoms. 

You want to do your best to prevent mould from forming in the first place. So keep your bathroom well ventilated by using the fan or opening a window or door. The less humid and damp it stays, the better. And if you do notice mould forming, opt for bleach and water to stop it in its tracks.

Allergies can be relentless. And it’s frustrating to feel like you’re not even safe in the comfort of your home. But by switching a few simple habits, you can significantly reduce the amount of allergens lurking around.

If you need extra support identifying or managing your allergies, we’d love to help. To register as a new patient or book an appointment, call us on 02031 433 449.