Top Allergen Found Indoors (And How to Clean Them)

Between 10% and 30% of the world’s population suffers from allergies, with household allergen triggering these reactions. Outdoors and in open spaces, thousands of potential allergens can trigger immune responses such as sneezing and rashes. Keeping a clean living or office space will eliminate indoor allergens. However, this is only temporary, and keeping an area free from allergens is difficult. 

Indoor allergens are present in any living space, from airborne to surface contact. We will discuss the top indoor allergens found in homes and offices.

Indoor Allergens to Watch Out For

Dust

Dust is made primarily of dead skin, and dust mites it is at the top of the allergen list. These are microscopic insects that feed on dead skin in dust, accumulating in areas that are usually uncovered and untouched for a long time. They can get into tiny gaps in cabinets and underneath furniture. 

Regular cleaning prevents dust from building up in any living space. Though it will not eliminate all dust, cleaning will minimize airborne dust, which is the leading cause of allergic reactions.

Pets as Allergen

Indoor pets like cats and dogs may be cute, but when they shed, it is not good if you are allergic to their hair. Aside from regular cleaning, having hair pets requires a professional groomer to control pet dander. Some people have extreme allergic reactions towards pets, so avoiding contact with pets outdoors and washing clothes to remove pet hair is essential.

Cloth

Hiding places that dust favor are carpets, curtains, and pillowcases, while bed sheets are dust mites’ preferred stomping ground. They also trap pet hair and pollen that triggers allergies if not well kept. It is best practice to replace bedsheets, pillowcases, and curtains regularly. Carpets must be vacuumed more often when you have pets to take out hairs and dust.

Chemical Allergen

From beauty products like perfumes and hairspray, cleaning agents like chlorine and bleach irritate the eyes and nose. If you have allergies to a beauty product, discontinue using it. For cleaning agents, store it in a safe place tightly covered.

Humidity

In the summer season, when experiencing scattered rain that makes the air humid can cause mold growth on surfaces that retains moisture. To avoid mold growth, make things like carpets and curtains dry and clean. If necessary, hire a professional when there is a mold infestation in your home to handle the issue.

Smoke and Smog

Cigarette smoke and outside smog are common causes of asthma attacks for many. Cigarette smoke residues are trapped in furniture and carpets even after someone is done smoking. It is best practice to politely ask someone who smokes to do it outside the house for the members with allergies. If you live in a neighborhood with heavy traffic, permanently close your windows to reduce smog from entering your home.

Staying Allergen-Free Year-Round

Allergens are all around us, and those with allergies should always have their medication nearby in case of attacks. To avoid recurring allergic attacks, regular cleaning and changing of curtains and bedsheets and keeping chemicals with strong odors, like bathroom cleaners, in a well-ventilated area tightly capped are excellent habits to avoid recurring allergic attacks.

These are excellent ways to prevent allergens from worsening your condition. One way to avoid allergens is to have a place not prone to allergen build-ups. IjaraCDC can help you find a home that is suitable for you. With our halal rent-to-own program, you can avail yourself of an affordable property free from riba and allergens. Talk to our experts today.