Defeat allergens: here’s how to control the dust, mold, pollen and other contaminants that are making you sneeze.
1: Not Keeping a Barrier Between You and Your Bedding
Use zippered dust-proof casings for pillows and mattresses. The pore space of such casings is so small that dust mites and their waste products can’t get through.
2: Vacuuming Without a HEPA Filter
Use HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters to prevent tiny particles of dust from being blown back out into the air.
3: Forgetting to Change the Vacuum Filter
Changing the filter is an essential part of keeping dust out of the air and preserving the life of the machine. Change the filter once it’s showing wear and tear or every six months if you’re using a HEPA filter.
4: Forgetting to Change the AC Filters
Never run your heating or air conditioning system without filters, and be sure to change them at least every three months.
5: Not Ventilating Your Bathroom
Running the exhaust fan (and making sure it’s vented to the outdoors) helps remove moisture from this naturally humid room.
6: Not Attending to Your Gutters
Leaky gutters can cause excessive moisture to enter your basement or crawl space. If you don’t have covered gutters, frequent litter removal is a must year round.
7: Too Many Textiles in the Bedroom
Carpeting, rugs, pillows, upholstered headboards and chairs are all dust catchers. Consider minimizing furnishings for an easier-to-dust environment.
8: Too Many Textiles in Your Living Area
The living room is the same as a bedroom. Keep upholstery to a minimum to reduce the amount of dust mites.
9: Inviting Allergens Into Your Yard
Avoid plants that are wind-pollinated — grasses are among the worst pollen offenders.
10: Not Following Your Nose
If you detect a musty smell in your home, inspect closely until you find the source of the smell. The sooner you find the mold, the easier it will be to remove.
11: Not Organizing Your Home Office
Clutter can harbor a plethora of dust mites — this includes stacks of papers, old magazines and office equipment. File paper inside a cabinet to stay organized and keep dust away.
Source: http://www.hgtv.com/