Don't like the constant sneezing or itchy, watery eyes after contact with dust or pet dander? Below is how to allergy-proof your home.

Sources of Indoor Allergies

Before you take measures to control indoor allergens, you should know the sources or triggers. The most prevalent hosts include:

• Pets
• Plants
• Stuffed toys
• Fabricated furniture
• Damp spots
• Uncovered mattresses
• Bedding
• Wall-to-wall carpets

Anytime you sit on or dust these items, you release the surface allergens into the air. So, how can you prevent this?

Weekly Cleaning Routine

Your weekly cleaning routine should focus on reducing allergens on every surface you touch. Use a mop on flooring and clean the carpet with a vacuum containing a HEPA filter. To clear the surfaces of dust, you should use a damp cloth to capture more allergens. You may come in contact with the allergy triggers, so it's vital you wear a face mask or hire someone to clean for you.

Once all this is done, focus on purifying the air using air-filtering devices and increasing air circulation in your home. This will help eliminate ever-present allergens and improve the air quality indoors.

Avoid Pet Dander

Animal companions can be great playmates; however, they can also trigger allergies. Practitioners recommend pets without fur for people with allergic reactions to animal dander. While there are no hypoallergenic pets, this kind of pet will result in few or no symptoms.

Another way to avoid pet dander is by restricting your pet's access throughout the home. It's also effective to cover your vents and regularly clean your pet's belongings, such as toys and furniture.

Prevent Mold

Mold spores are among the leading allergy triggers and common in areas with prevalent water. You can prevent their infestation by:

• Keeping windows and doors closed in hot weather
• Dehumidifying the air
• Improving ventilation in your kitchen, bathrooms, and basement
• Promptly fixing leaks to prevent water seepage
• Using mold-resistant products
• Monitoring indoor plants to avoid over-watering

If you notice mold anywhere, remove it immediately by cleaning the surface. This will slow its reappearance.

Get Rid of Pests

Cockroaches and dust mites are prime allergen-carriers. Cleaning surfaces and bedding is the best way to prevent or eliminate these pests.

Cockroaches are attracted to food, so ensure your food is covered or put away and kitchen trash cans have lids. If you find cockroaches in your home, apply traps and boric acid instead of chemicals that may irritate your sinuses.

You can avoid dust mites by protecting your mattresses and fabric furniture with allergen-resistant covers. If possible, replace any wall-to-wall carpeting with linoleum, vinyl, or hardwood and utilize area rugs that are easier to clean.

Allergen Elimination Success

Some tasks such as cleaning HVAC systems or duct work and repairing leaks do require hiring a professional, but allergy-proofing your home can mostly be down on your own. Establish a weekly cleaning routine, avoid pet dander, prevent mold, and eradicate pests. By executing a few simple home remedies, you can successfully minimize contact with everyday triggers and keep your home allergen-free.