Coping with Seasonal Allergies

By Forschler's Home Center

Seasonal Allergies: Tips & Remedies!

It’s summertime and yet you keep on sneezing or sniffling at home? Even if you know that seasonal allergies are usually due to outdoor factors such as pollen, mold… and don’t last passed the spring, you wonder about the causes. Here’s an interesting fact - indoor allergies exist too! For one, you could be allergic to dust.

From your living room carpet, draperies and upholstered furniture to your bedroom; dust mites are everywhere in your home! Mattress, pillows, and bedding are their favorite hangouts. Even if no one can eliminate dust mites completely, one can put an end to their spreading. Here are some tips to keep you virtually dust mite-free!

Make sure you are using the right furniture!

Change your fur or high pile rug for a low pile that is washable, if you don’t wish to put it aside this summer. (Photo right –Ashley Rug)

Use a bed with a wooden or metal frame and get a mattress cover. If your mattress is old, 5 years + and you’ve considered buying a new one, then go with a foam mattress. Most of foam mattress materials are allergen-free; but still needs some maintenance! (Photo –Ashley Beds)

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Maintain good cleaning habits:

Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust and always use a damp cloth to remove dust on your furniture. It’s better to run your air conditioner to keep allergens out and use an air purifier instead of opening the windows and doors. Also, you should clean your air filters often. When the humidity level in your house stays between 30% and 50%, dust mites won’t thrive!

Keep your bedding clean; wash your sheets every week in hot water to kill dust mites. Comforters, blankets orbedspreads should be washed once a month.(Photo –Ashley Bedding)

Some natural remedies…

Aromatherapy can definitely be an option to consider! Eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender or wintergreen oils can help you reduce dust mites! Apply one drop of eucalyptus oil when doing your laundry to kill your bedding dust mites.

Drinking herbal teas help -green or ginger tea with a teaspoon of raw honey provide great allergy relief if taken daily!

Clean your home with vinegar, lemon and/ or baking soda plus a few drops of natural oil! By making your own cleaning products, you can avoid indoor allergens and save on the cost!