Checklist for Environmental Allergy Sufferers
Not sure what steps to take to make your living environment as safe as possible for your health? Check out some suggestions below.
Your living environment, especially your bedroom, is where you can relax, unwind, get work done, laugh with family, cry, eat, you name it. It's your space. You spent time decorating, or if you're like me, you have recently moved and are still tweaking and arranging everything. While you bring your living space together, don't forget that you spend most of your time in your bedroom, hopefully getting some good night's sleep. You wouldn't want the place you spent time arranging to create a problem for you and cause your body to be on edge due to allergens. I know I wouldn't want that for myself.
Creating your home allergy-proof does not mean that you have to sacrifice your style and personality. Make it- you!
Keep in mind these three things: 1) Less clutter means less dust 2) Easy to clean surfaces means you'll dust more often 3) Natural light, surfaces under your feet and make up your sheets.
CHECKLIST
Quality HEPA Air Purifier
Dehumidifier to reduce moisture and mold.
HEPA Air Filters in the HVAC system, replace as recommended.
Dusting: Damp microfiber cloth to wipe baseboards when sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming the floor weekly.
Cleaning products: Select natural based with fewer fragrances.
Storage: Store items in closed bins that are easily wipeable. Also in closed drawers and closets.
Flooring: Select wood, tile, stone, concrete, bamboo, vinyl, or laminate flooring. No carpet. Washable area rugs can be used.
Bedding: Encase pillows and mattress with allergen-proof case(including dust mites). For bed sheets choose natural materials like cotton, silk, or bamboo. Wash weekly.
Bed: Hypoallergenic mattress, fabric-free headboard. Solid wood or metal bed frames are best, so you don't have to deal with VOCs and formaldehyde from engineered wood or plastic.
Window Treatment: None. Or use washable light natural fabric curtains or roller shades. They won't catch as much dust as blinds and drapes do.
Pets: Get an allergy test to confirm what you are allergic to. Hypoallergenic pets are not necessarily best for all allergy suffers. If an allergy test confirms that you are ok keep pets outside of the bedroom and off the fabric furniture as much as possible. This will reduce the amount of pet hair and dander that attach to the fabric you sit and sleep on.
Pest: Cockroaches and mice are known allergens Seal cracks and holes. Consider natural at-home solutions to mitigate small problems. Call a professional if a serious problem.
Check for leaks and fix them to prevent mold and moisture-loving pests.
Living with environmental allergies can be a challenge, so talk to your healthcare professional for help. Schedule a free consult with me! I'd love to help you get some relief naturally.
(#naturalhealth, #allergyrelief, #livingwithallergies).