Allergy Sufferer In The Family? How Parents Can Help Their Children Breathe Easier In The Home

For parents of children with allergies, one of the most difficult parts is seeing their child suffer in their own home. In many cases, however, allergy symptoms are often caused or worsened by something in the home environment. According to recent studies indoor pollution levels in the home were found to be as much as 2 to 100 times the level found in outdoor spaces. If you are the parent of a child with allergies, ridding your home environment of allergens can be the first step in helping to keep kids healthy and comfortable. These tips will show you how.

Reduce the amount of soft materials in the home

Pollen, pet dander, skin dander, insect debris, and many other allergens can be concealed in the fibers of carpeting, upholstery, draperies, and other soft materials even when homes look and smell clean. To reduce the level of these common allergens and help your child breathe easier, consider taking some or all of the following actions:

  • replacing carpeting with hard surface flooring
  • changing out heavy draperies for non-fabric options such as plantation shutters or curtains that can be laundered frequently
  • replacing pillows, bedding, throws, and soft toys with hypo-allergenic versions
  • laundering rugs and bedding frequently

Develop pet handling routines to limit allergens

Parents with children who are newly diagnosed with allergies may feel that they must get rid of all family pets, but this is not always the case. Often, making some changes in pet care routines will help to limit the impact of pet dander and other pet-related allergens in the home. Key ways to accomplish this include:

  • keeping washable towels handy to wipe pets frequently to help remove pet dander and any pollen they may be carrying into the home
  • bathing and brushing pets frequently to remove loose hair, dander, and debris that can cause allergy symptoms
  • bathing pet bedding frequently
  • teaching children to wash their hands thoroughly after playing with pets

Choose air conditioning when pollen counts are high

Choosing to close the windows and use air conditioning during even mild weather is another way to drastically reduce the amount of pollen and other allergens that would otherwise enter the home through open windows. 

Replace chemicals with non-toxic options

Chemicals in the home are another frequent cause of allergy symptoms and discomfort. Replacing cleaners that contain harsh chemicals with non-toxic, unscented versions can be very effective in helping to reduce allergy symptoms in the home. In many cases, simple, non-toxic ingredients, such as baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and salt can be used to create safe alternatives for commercial glass, tile, floor, and disinfectant cleaners.

For more information, contact a clinic like Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics.

 


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