Dust and other allergens may seem inevitable in the desert climate we enjoy here in Arizona. This situation can appear hopeless for those who suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory concerns. However, there are ways to decrease allergens in your home, and lessen allergy symptoms. Follow these ten tips to allergy-proof your Yuma-area home:
- Clean frequently. Regular cleaning is an essential part of making your home more allergy-proof. Be sure to use cleaning methods that actually capture the dust, rather than just stirring it up.
- Change your laundry habits. Wash bedding in hot water weekly, and purchase allergy-proof covers to keep dust mites from taking over your mattress and pillows.
- Replace your air filter. Changing your HVAC system’s air filter monthly will help catch any allergens in the air.
- Invest in whole-house filtration. If your HVAC air filter isn’t doing enough to improve your indoor air quality, consider installing a whole-house filtration system. These systems are one of the most effective ways to allergy-proof your home.
- Switch to allergy-proof flooring. If possible, get rid of any carpeting, which holds dust and other allergens even with extensive cleaning. If you must have carpet, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to clean at least a few times a week.
- Choose allergen-free furniture. When purchasing furniture for your home, select items with fewer cushions and upholstered surfaces. These make great homes for dust mites and are often difficult to clean. If you already have upholstered furniture, wash cushion covers in hot water routinely.
- Decorate simply. Get rid of any knick-knacks or tiny items on display around the house. These collect dust, and are often overlooked on cleaning day.
- Clean up any food or crumbs. These attract mice and roaches, which exacerbate allergy symptoms for many people.
- Keep your pets clean. If you have cats or dogs, bathe and groom them often, and keep them off of furniture, especially in the bedroom.
- Cover your windows differently. Exchange heavy drapes for blinds or lightweight fabric curtains.
For more information on allergy-proofing your Yuma home, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about allergy-proofing and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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