Ahh choo!
…cough, cough
…oh my eyes
…pass me a tissue!
Have you or anyone in your household ever experienced these or other allergy symptoms?
If you have, chances are you have sensitivities or allergies to things occurring right inside your own home.
They’re not uncommon, and the good news is, with healthy management protocols and a bit of effort, they’re usually controllable. The bad news is, ignored those symptoms can lead to asthma, sinus and respiratory infections, and a general susceptibility to illness.
Our team at Organic & Clean is dedicated to helping you reduce the allergens and germs in your home through our detailed cleaning practices and commitment to natural cleaning products, but below are some tips you can implement on your own to dominate these disturbing irritants.
ALLERGEN #1 - Dust Mites
What are dust mites?
…they are microscopic spider-like insects that feast on shed skin cells (ours and our pets’).
DISGUSTING.
We’ve all heard of these invisible organisms but are you aware they live on almost every fabric and soft surface of your home? That they can burrow into cushions, bedding, mattresses, overstuffed furniture, wall hangings - I’m sure you get the picture.
Unlike bed bugs and other insects, dust mites don’t bite humans (thank goodness) but they leave behind old skin and fecal matter which can cause a myriad of allergic reactions, including nasty, itchy rashes.
While they’re challenging to control, the effects can be diminished by following a few of the steps below:
Wash your bedding weekly in HOT water.
Use zippered, allergen-proof covers on all mattresses, box springs and pillows.
Keep stuffed toys off of beds and wash them regularly.
Keep your bedroom a pet-free zone - pets shed dander which dust mites thrive on.
Remove or reduce all wall-to-wall carpeting and replace with tile, linoleum, hardwood or other hard surface.
Use washable throw rugs and wash regularly in hot water.
Choose washable blinds or curtains.
Reduce inside humidity to 40-50 percent.
Vacuum at least twice a week, using a quality vacuum with a HEPA filter.
Use air purifying units with HEPA filters - clean the filters regularly.
ALLERGEN #2 - Chemical Cleaners:
Many of the household cleaners found on supermarket shelves are loaded with harsh chemicals and strong scents. While they can be effective on dust and dirt, they can also trigger strong, allergic reactions in plenty of people, particularly the very young and the elderly.
Go green with these helpful tips:
Familiarize yourself with typical cleaning ingredients and search for commercial cleaners which don’t contain harsh chemicals. If they’re organic cleaners, even better!
Design your own DIY cleaners using common household products such as vinegar, baking soda, lemon, and Borax. Below are a couple of our favourite homemade cleaning recipes.
All-Purpose Cleaner
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• Essential oil favourite
Place in a non-aerosol spray bottle
Soft Scrub
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 Tbsp liquid soap
• Essential oil favourite
Use generously on a microfiber cloth, then polish with another clean, dry microfiber cloth.
• Borax - a natural, effective product which can usually be found in a natural cleaning store. Avoid eye contact and undiluted skin contact and make sure to store out of reach of kids and pets.
• Castile Liquid Soap - made from olive oil, contains no fragrance and is a gentle solution for sensitive skin.
• Essential Oils - can be mixed with any household cleaners and may also be used in a diffuser to help purify the air.
• Note - TEA TREE oil has high anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
ALLERGEN #3 - Mold and Mildew:
Household mold and mildew may look similar but they are quite different. Mildew is typically on the surface and can be easily removed, while mold can penetrate beneath the surface of the affected area. There’s a simple way to determine if you have mildew or mold growing in your home, however it’s always a good idea to have it professionally tested and removed if it persists.
Tip: put a few drops of Bleach on the area, wait for 5 minutes and inspect. If the spot is lighter, it’s likely mildew, if it remains dark, probably mold.
While they’re different, both can potentially cause allergic reactions in people, stemming from respiratory problems to dizziness, depression and extreme fatigue. So, as usual, the best cure is prevention.
Prevent mold and mildew from developing with these tips:
Keep all areas in your home dry.
Don’t run your shower for long periods of time.
Put your bathroom fan on a timer so it continues to run for at least 10 minutes after you’ve shut the water off.
Hang all towels where they can dry quickly rather than in a heap on the floor or in a cramped laundry basket.
Wipe all tub and shower areas immediately after using.
Repair any leaks in bathrooms and kitchens.
Keep houseplants to a minimum.
Keep the inside humidity at 40-50 percent.
PREVENTING ALLERGENS WITH OUR PRO CLEANING TIPS
Although the above factors contribute to the presence of allergens and germs in our homes, here are a few cleaning routines that will significantly decrease harmful irritants:
Dust regularly - start at the top and work your way down. Start with a dry microfiber cloth and touch up with a damp cloth to get those last few particles if necessary.
Change your kitchen trash bag daily.
Clean food items off counters and tables immediately after you’ve finished eating.
Shake throw rugs outside every other day.
Vacuum at least twice a week with a good, filtered vacuum, and clean the filter regularly.
Designate a pet-free chair or sofa and cover it with an easily-washable cover or blanket - wash cover weekly in hot water.
Without a doubt, your family’s health is your most important and valuable asset; your home is your most financially valuable asset - aren’t they both worth the effort?
Are you ready to get some help with your cleaning needs? Whether you’re looking for residential or commercial cleaning, we can help!
Call today at 778-761-5433!