| Keeping your home free from allergens is very | | | | mold or mildew. |
| important. This is especially true if you have young | | | | 6. Avoid the use of throw pillows on your bed. |
| children or seniors living in your home. So what are | | | | Because these pillows are normally only used for |
| some easy steps you can take to make your home | | | | decorative purposes, they are not washed as often |
| allergy free? Here are 10 great tips to keep your | | | | as regular bedding. However, these pillows are still |
| home clean and clear both inside and out. | | | | prime targets for dust mites - a very common |
| 1. Window blinds are like dust magnets. If you have | | | | allergen. |
| people in your home who suffer from dust allergies, | | | | 7. Watch the cleaners you use in your home. Some |
| change your window coverings to a washable | | | | cleaners contain harsh chemicals and these chemicals |
| alternative like drapes or curtains. | | | | can cause asthma flare-ups for those that are |
| 2. Always run your exhaust fan when cooking. | | | | susceptible. |
| Cooking on the stove causes moisture that can turn | | | | 8. Sometimes antibacterial cleaners are not the best |
| into mold if it isn't pushed out of the home. | | | | choice. Some antibacterial cleaners contain the |
| 3. Wash and vacuum pet hair and pet bedding often. | | | | chemical triclosan which can cause bacteria to |
| Also, be sure to take your dog or cat outdoors | | | | become resistant to antibiotic. This can actually cause |
| before grooming them. | | | | viruses rather than protect you from them. |
| 4. Install a HEPA filter in your vacuum to take care of | | | | 9. Avoid burning candles or incense. These products |
| fine dust particles in your home. These tiny bits of | | | | can cause irritation for those with allergies. |
| dust can be especially irritating to those with asthma | | | | 10. Clean bathroom fans with ear swabs dipped in |
| or respiratory problems. | | | | rubbing alcohol. This keeps the fan clear of dust and |
| 5. Run a dehumidifier often in the warm months to | | | | debris and keeps the moisture ventilating out of the |
| prevent moisture build up that could cause dangerous | | | | home. |