Allergies Health Center

Kitchen

1. Stove: Use an exhaust fan over the stove to remove cooking fumes.

2. Cabinets/Counters: Keep under-sink cabinets and countertops clean and dry. When cleaning, use a disinfectant cleaner designed to kill mildew.

3. Refrigerator: Wipe up excessive moisture in the refrigerator to avoid mold growth. Clean refrigerator walls and shelves regularly with a nonabrasive, all-purpose cleaner or a solution of baking soda and water.

Living Room

1. Carpet: If allergies are severe, consider removing carpeting and using hardwood floors. If you use carpeting, choose low-pile and vacuum once or twice a week. Consider using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum cleaner. Go against the carpet's nap, taking a minimum of six to eight strokes over each area. Empty or replace the bag before it is full. If possible, have a non-allergy sufferer vacuum. The allergy sufferer should try to stay out of the area for 30 minutes after vacuuming. If that's not possible, the allergy sufferer should wear a disposable dust mask while vacuuming.

2. Furniture: Dust frequently with a damp cloth.

3. Curtains/Blinds: Launder curtains regularly to remove dust and dust mites. Avoid blinds or long drapes, as they attract dust. Use window shades instead.

4. Rugs: Launder rugs weekly to remove dust and dust mites, animal dander, pollen, and mold. Or shake rugs outdoors regularly.

5. Windows: Keep windows closed, especially during pollen season. Clean window frames and sills regularly for mold or mildew.

6. Air Conditioner/Fans/Filters: Filter the air, preferably using a HEPA filter. Clean air filters often and clean air ducts once a year.

7. Pets: Consider keeping them outside. Bathe them often.

Bedroom

1. Carpet: If allergies are severe, consider removing carpeting and using hardwood floors. If you use carpeting, choose low-pile and vacuum once or twice a week. Consider using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum cleaner. Go against the carpet's nap, taking a minimum of six to eight strokes over each area. Empty or replace the bag before it is full.

2. Furniture: Dust frequently with a damp cloth.

3. Curtains/Blinds: Launder curtains regularly to remove dust and dust mites. Avoid blinds or long drapes, as they attract dust. Use window shades instead.

4. Collectibles: Get rid of dust collectors such as magazines, knickknacks, and stuffed animals, or store them in closed boxes or cloth bags.

5. Door: Keep the closet door closed.

6. Dressers/Nightstands: Keep dressers and nightstands clear of clutter and dust regularly.

7. Bedding: Launder sheets and pillows weekly in hot/warm water and tumble dry. Don't leave wet clothes in the washer. Wash blankets, comforters, and mattress pads monthly. Avoid downfilled pillows and bedding.

8. Mattress/Boxsprings: To reduce dust and allergens, vacuum both sides of your mattress for at least two minutes twice monthly or use plastic covers for mattress and boxsprings.

9. Pets: Keep furry or feathered pets out of the bedroom. If one takes a catnap on the bed, wash the bedding as soon as possible.

Bathroom

1. Curtain: Clean vinyl shower curtains regularly with a bleach or disinfectant cleaner designed to kill mold and mildew. Wash fabric curtains with detergent and liquid bleach.

2. Tile: Clean tile with a disinfectant cleaner designed to kill mold and mildew.

3. Shower: After showering, sponge or squeegee dry the shower walls. Keep the shower curtain or door open when not in use.

4. Door: Keep the bathroom door open when not in use.

5. Tub: Clean bathtubs using a nonabrasive, all-purpose, or disinfectant cleaner designed to kill mold and mildew.

Basement

1. Storage: Store collectibles and clothes in plastic storage bags.

2. Air: Use a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth.