Many people know to take precautions outdoors to protect themselves from common allergens like pollen when the seasons change. However, when the weather gets colder and you start spending more time indoors, you are exposing yourself to many indoor allergens like pet dander and dust mites. These are often overlooked, but should be taken seriously to protect the health of you and your family. Family members spend a lot of time in confined spaces in the home which contribute to significant and chronic health problems. As a result, we must take steps to limit their exposure to mold and other allergy producing irritants. These simple procedures will help to keep your home free of these allergens and irritants:

• Have heating and air conditioning system serviced regularly.
• Replace air conditioning filter with small particle or HEPA filter. Make sure that the filter holder is airtight to prevent air bypass.
• Encase pillows, mattresses and box springs in dust mite proof covers.
• Spread aquarium gravel over the dirt in plants to help contain mold and be careful not to spill water on the carpet when watering the plants to prevent mold growth in the carpet.
• Avoid using wood burning fireplaces and make sure that gas fireplaces vent to the exterior.
• Use the exhaust fan in the bathroom to reduce moisture and mold buildup while bathing and showering. Leave the fan running an hour to two after showering.
• Don’t allow smoking in the home.
• Remove shoes prior to entering the home to prevent contamination from mold or lead dust.
• If home is equipped with a front loading washer, make sure the door gasket is cleaned with bleach frequently to prevent a buildup of mold.
• Use tapered candles instead of jar candles to prevent spreading soot particles.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to prevent spreading dust particles throughout the home.
• Avoid running your automobile in the garage for an extended period of time to prevent combustion gases from entering adjacent living spaces.
• Keep doors and windows closed during warm weather and use air conditioner and dehumidifiers to keep moisture in the home at a minimum.
• Clean the refrigerator drip tray annually to avoid spreading contaminants that have collected in the tray.
• Avoid using scented laundry, cleaning and body products which contain chemicals that contribute to allergies.
• Control pest infestations from cockroaches and mice by utilizing inexpensive traps. Seal any cracks or holes where mice could enter.  Remove allergy triggering insect and mouse residue by thoroughly vacuuming carpet and washing hard surfaces.

By following these suggestions, you should significantly reduce your family’s exposure to allergy causing irritants. To further protect your home from harmful allergens, schedule an appointment with our experienced and certified home inspectors. You can reach us at 800-822-7200 to learn more about our extensive inspection process.