The Top 5 Ways To Get Rid of Allergies In Your House

You're settling in to watch your favorite TV show at home when suddenly your eyes start to water, a sneeze attack hits you, and your nose begins to run. It's an all-too-familiar occurrence. That's when the unsettling thought crosses your mind: "Am I allergic to something in my house?"

Indoor allergens can trigger a wide range of allergic reactions and respiratory problems. But there's good news. You can effectively reduce allergens in your home and transform it into a space where you and your family can breathe freely and comfortably.

We know, we know. What does a foundation repair contractor know about indoor allergies? At Midwest, we've been working on homes for nearly five decades, and in that time, we've witnessed how issues like leaky basements, damp crawl spaces, and poor ventilation can contribute to allergen growth. And over the years, we've gathered a few insights and solutions to improve your indoor air quality, which we're excited to share in this blog. 

This article will provide you with advice on how to reduce allergens in your home. We'll explore common indoor allergens, guide you in identifying problematic areas in your residence, and offer practical steps to improve your indoor air quality. Let's get into it.

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The most common indoor allergens

Ah, indoor allergens. The culprits behind those sneezes, sniffles, and itchy eyes. Your allergies could be the result of some uninvited guests in your home. Let's get to know them:

1. Dust mites: These microscopic bugs like to snack on dead skin flakes and thrive on dust, bedding, and upholstery. But here's the kicker – it's the enzymes in their feces that trigger allergies and asthma reactions. (Yeah, it's as gross as it sounds).
2. Pet dander: Our furry friends bring joy to our lives, but they also bring allergies. Cats, dogs, and even birds shed tiny, nearly invisible flecks of skin that can start an allergic reaction.
3. Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew are fungi that thrive in damp, humid corners of your home, like basements or crawl spaces. They release spores into the air that, when inhaled, can lead to respiratory problems and allergies.
4. Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can sneak its way inside and cause allergy symptoms in the comfort of your home. 
5. Cockroaches and insects: These unwelcome household guests can carry allergens. Their saliva, feces, and skin contain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions.

Now that you understand the common allergens and what to look for based on your specific situation, let's identify where your allergy trouble zone is in your home. 

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Identifying allergy trouble zones

Allergens can exist anywhere in your home, but in our experience, these areas are the most problematic.

1. Bedrooms. Your bedroom is a place to rest and relax, but it’s also a place that can harbor a lot of allergens, with pet dander and dust mites being the most common culprits.
2. Living rooms. The living room is the heart of the home. But it’s also a hotspot for allergens, especially if you have furry friends.
3. Basements and crawl spaces. These areas are notorious for moisture issues and mold growth, making them an ideal breeding ground for allergens.
4. Attics and ventilation systems. Poor attic ventilation can lead to moisture problems and mold growth, while poorly maintained ventilation systems may fail to circulate air and remove allergens.

Understanding these key allergy trouble zones within your home will help you address and get rid of potential allergen issues. Now, let's discuss practical steps to improve your air quality in each of these areas.  

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5 ways to reduce allergens in your home

1. Regular cleaning and maintenance

If you find yourself constantly sneezing, your house might be telling you it needs a good clean. Consistent cleaning is the absolute best way to reduce allergens. Don't worry; we've got your back. These are our best tips: 

• Invest in a vacuum cleaner with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to trap those tiny allergen particles.
• Use a damp cloth or microfiber cloth when dusting to keep allergens from doing that thing where they dance in the air.

• Wash bedding, curtains, and rugs regularly in hot water (we're talking above 130°F) to kill dust mites.
• Don't forget to clean and disinfect all the things, especially frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and light switches to stop allergens in their tracks.
• Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture at least once a week.
• Pay extra attention to areas where dust accumulates, such as baseboards, windowsills, and those dang ceiling corners.
• When you're done vacuuming, be sure to empty the vacuum cleaner outside to prevent allergens from re-entering your home.

2. Groom your pets

Now, let's talk about our furry friends. They're the best, but they can also be an allergy factory. Here's how to enjoy their cuddles without the sneezes:

• Regularly brush your pets outside to remove loose fur and dander.
• Bathe your pets as needed to reduce the amount shedding.

• Keep your pet's bedding and toys on the clean side by washing them frequently.
• Invest in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to catch pet dander and other allergens.
• Designate pet-free zones in your home, like a bedroom, so you can breathe easily.

3. Control humidity

Humidity control is the backbone of good air quality. Here's how to keep it in check:

• Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to make dust mites and mold feel unwelcome.
• Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels in your home.
• In damp areas like basements and crawl spaces, install a dehumidifier to keep moisture in check.

• Fix any leaks or water damage to prevent mold from becoming your roommate.
• Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens to reduce humidity.

4. Allergen-resistant home products

Investing in allergen-resistant home products can make a world of difference. Consider:

• Purchasing bedding, including mattress and pillow covers, made from tightly woven fabric.
• Choosing furniture with leather or vinyl upholstery instead of fabric; it's easier to clean and less allergen-friendly.
• Regularly replacing standard HVAC filters with HEPA filters for good air filtration.

5. Proper ventilation

It’s important to make sure your indoor air remains fresh and allergen-free. Here’s how: 

• When the weather allows, fling those windows and doors open to let the great outdoor air circulate indoors.
• In kitchens and bathrooms, use exhaust fans to remove moisture and allergens.
• Consider installing an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat recovery ventilator (HRV) to improve your indoor air exchange game.
• Keep your home's ventilation systems in good shape with regular maintenance.
• Keep outdoor vents and intakes free of debris so fresh air flows freely.

By following these tips and steps, you'll actively fight allergens and create a healthier living space for you and your loved ones.

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If your allergies are caused by moisture problems...

So, you've cleaned your house, groomed your pets, and checked humidity levels, but you're still dealing with stubborn allergens. Well, it's time to dive deeper into the nitty-gritty of your home – the foundation.

Basement waterproofing helps air quality and allergies

Alright, let's break it down. Your basement might seem like a forgotten room in your home, but it plays a vital role. If your basement has moisture issues, it's basically an invitation for mold and dust mites to set up shop. Nobody wants that! 

This is where basement waterproofing steps in. It helps keep your basement dry and inhospitable to allergens.

Basement waterproofing is a process designed to protect your basement from moisture infiltration, which can contribute to indoor allergens and various health issues. This method involves a combination of techniques and materials to create a dry, moisture-resistant basement, including: 

1. Water drainage track: One of the primary components of basement waterproofing is a water drainage track or system. This system is strategically placed along the perimeter of your basement's interior walls to collect and channel water that enters your basement. By effectively managing water, it helps prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to the growth of allergens like mold and mildew.
2. Sump pump: A sump pump is installed in a designated pit within your basement. When the water drainage track collects water, the sump pump activates to pump the water out and away from your home's foundation. It ultimately prevents hydrostatic pressure from building up against your basement walls. High hydrostatic pressure can lead to cracks, leaks, and the potential for moisture to infiltrate your living spaces.
3. Vapor barrier: Waterproofing also includes installing a vapor barrier to your basement walls. The barrier acts as a protective shield, preventing water vapor from penetrating into your basement. By creating a moisture-sealed environment, it significantly reduces the conditions that promote mold and mildew growth.

What if you have a crawl space?

Now, we can't forget about the crawl space. If it's damp (which crawl spaces with dirt floors almost always are), it can be a breeding ground for mold. By sealing off your crawl space with a vapor barrier, you're not only preventing moisture intrusion but also preventing allergens from moving throughout your home.

Now, here's the best part. When you address moisture issues through foundation repair, you're not just making your basement and crawl space less inviting for allergens; you're also improving your entire home's air quality.

There's a huge flaw with basements and crawl spaces and it's called the stack effect. Air is always moving, especially in your home. The warmest air rises to the attic and then escapes through several cracks. As that air escapes, your home turns into a vacuum and creates suction at the lowest point of your home, which allows new air to enter. This is the stack effect.

It creates airflow in your home from bottom to top. Air from the basement or crawl space moves upward into the first floor, and then to the second floor, and so on. The stack effect is good to an extent. It keeps air flowing and fresh, but it's also a huge culprit for humidity and moisture moving throughout your home. When you waterproof your crawl space or basement,  you're giving your home a breath of fresh air, quite literally. 

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A quick recap

And there you have it, a comprehensive guide to reducing allergens in your home. Let's do a quick recap:

• Regular cleaning is the backbone of allergen reduction.
• Groom your pets & enjoy the cuddles without the sneezes.
• Controlling humidity is the ultimate secret to good air quality.
• Invest in a healthier home by using allergen-resistant home products.
• Proper ventilation keeps your indoor air fresh.
• Tackle moisture issues at the source with foundation repair.

Your home is your haven, and we're all about making it a healthier, happier place to be. By following this guide, you're not just reducing allergens; you're creating an environment where you and your loved ones can breathe easy - literally. 

When it doubt, call a professional

Now, we know you've got this, but sometimes, you need a little backup. That's where professional help comes in. If you've got persistent allergen issues or you're considering foundation repair, don't hesitate to reach out to professionals. They've got the knowledge and experience to take your allergen reduction game to the next level.

If you're interested in basement waterproofing or crawl space encapsulation in our service area, we'd love to help. We've been in business for over 45 years and offer free, no-obligation home inspections. Contact us today by starting a chat in the bottom right corner, filling out this form, or calling us at 1-515-289-1606.