Your home is a battlefield of sneezes, itchy eyes, and “what was that thing again?” Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people experience their allergies not in huge traumatic moments, but in smaller, daily frustrations. Good news, there are several products available that can greatly decrease that “background noise.”
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None of the products we will discuss is a “miracle” product. They are simply “small helpers.” Together, they can create a more peaceful atmosphere, make cleaning much simpler, and give you a greater peace of mind for the rest of your day.
We’ll go over six everyday household products that help allergy-sensitive families breathe a little easier.
1. Laundry Detergent that is Free of Fragrance, and Still Cleans Well
Clothing, bedding, and towels stay on your skin all day. So, when those items contain strong fragrances or harsh chemicals, your body usually finds a way to let you know.
One of the simplest swaps you can make is changing your laundry detergent to one that is:
- a) Without dyes and perfumes
- b) For sensitive skin
- c) Tested by Dermatologists or Allergy Groups
- d) Wash bedding and pillowcases in hot water, whenever possible. Heat also kills dust mites and pollen. Since one product is gentle and works great for both kids and adults, you don’t have to purchase different products for each member of the family.
When you remove the fragrance from your laundry detergent, you may find that red rashes disappear, and random itchiness subsides.
2. Bedding that is Hypoallergenic to Create Calmer Nights
Many allergy sufferers experience problems when their allergies occur at night. Stuffy noses, coughing, and itchy eyes are not exactly conducive to a good night’s sleep.
Bedding that is hypoallergenic can greatly help. Consider the following:
- a) Pillow and Mattress Protectors that are dust-mite resistant
- b) Synthetic or Tightly Weaved Duvets (instead of Feather and Down)
- c) Pillows that can be washed and dried regularly
- d) These types of protective covers act as shields, making it much harder for dust mites and pollen to build up in the bedding. Additionally, the bedding is much easier to wash and dry on a warm cycle.
It may be worthwhile to ask your allergist which fabrics and fillings are best suited to manage your family’s specific allergies, before purchasing an expensive new pillow.
In many cases, switching from feathers to microfiber can result in a significant reduction in symptoms in a very short period of time (one week).
3. An Air Purifier with a True HEPA Filter in the Rooms Where Your Family Spends Most of Their Time
Air Purifiers are not necessary to install in every nook and cranny of your home. First, determine the rooms where your family spends the most time. Typically, this includes the main bedroom and the living area. Choose an air purifier that has a true HEPA filter, not just “HEPA Type”. Be sure to check the recommended room size listed on the packaging so you do not inadvertently purchase a too-small unit for a larger open-plan area. Install the air purifier in a location that allows the air to flow freely around it (not behind a couch or curtain). Run it consistently, rather than only when someone is experiencing symptoms. Think of running the air purifier as brushing your teeth – regular use produces better results than occasional heavy-duty use.
4. A Vacuum that Traps Dust and Does Not Disperse It
If your vacuum smells dusty immediately upon starting it, then it is likely dispersing as many dust particles back into the air as it is collecting from the floor.
A vacuum that is specifically designed for allergy-sensitive homes typically has a number of features, including:
- a) Sealed System
- b) HEPA Filtration
- c) Attachments for Upholstery and Corners
- d) This type of vacuum can be a significant improvement for allergy-suffering households.
Use the soft-brush attachment to clean curtains, couch cushions, and mattresses. These areas tend to collect dust, pet dander, and pollen.
If you are on a budget, you do not necessarily need a high-end robot cleaner. Any standard or upright vacuum with a proper filter that you run once or twice a week will produce a measurable and breathable improvement in your indoor air quality. Cleaning becomes less about disturbing the dust and more about eliminating it.
5. Microfiber Cloths that Replace Harsh Chemical Sprays
You know that pungent chemical odor after you finish cleaning the kitchen or bathroom? That scent itself can trigger coughing or headaches in some families.
Microfiber cloths provide a simple solution. The fibers are designed to capture dust and dirt without requiring the use of harsh chemicals. Typically, you will need:
- a) A slightly damp microfiber cloth for everyday cleaning
- b) A second microfiber cloth specifically for glass
- c) Mild, low-fragrance cleaner for heavier cleaning tasks
- d) Because microfiber is able to capture such a high volume of dust and debris, you are able to remove dust from surfaces, rather than merely moving it around. Clean from top to bottom to avoid transferring dust from higher surfaces to lower ones.
In time, you should be able to reduce the amount of strong cleaning chemicals you purchase, and still maintain your countertops and shelving surfaces clean and shiny.
6. Gentle Rinses for Showers and Nasal Irritation Relief
Gentle rinses are simple tools to help you manage your allergies. Two simple daily habits can help:
- a) Encourage a quick shower after spending time outdoors, particularly during peak pollen seasons.
- b) Use a saline nasal spray or rinse to remove pollen and dust from your nasal passage
- c) There are numerous kid-friendly options with mild sprays that are non-threatening. The intention is not to force water through your nasal passages, but to gently remove irritating substances. These routines are particularly helpful prior to bedtime. Rather than going to bed with pollen still attached to your hair and skin, your children will sleep cleaner and with reduced irritation. This can translate to fewer nighttime sniffles and improved rest for all.
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Combining all of these Products Without Feeling Overwhelmed
When looking at a list of six products, you may feel overwhelmed by the thought of having to purchase everything at once. Do not feel obligated to do so.
Managing allergies will require some degree of ongoing maintenance. However, utilizing the correct everyday products can transform the daily process of constantly fighting fires into a smoother, more manageable process. Less itching. Fewer middle-of-the-night trips to the pharmacy. More time to spend on the enjoyable aspects of family life. And that in a busy allergy-prone household is worth a lot.
