Allergy rates are increasing at a lightning speed, and today, both children and adults are far more likely to develop one or another type of allergy than ever before. If you or someone in your family is allergic to food, then you surely know how to deal with this issue. If you are allergic to outdoor air pollutants, then again, all chances are your doctor told you how to ease your symptoms.

But what if the allergens are right inside your home, which, according to a popular saying, should be your castle, the place where you feel safe, secure, and protected from all possible threats? Well, at this point, the whole story is getting more complicated because, as it turns out, we share our homes with dust mites, mold, and a heck of a lot of other culprits that make us cough, sneeze, and feel wretched.

Fortunately, it’s not all bad as there are tried and true ways to fight the invisible invaders and win the battle. Here is what you need to know about hidden allergens lurking in your home, plus some useful tips on how to minimize their harmful impact.

Contaminants From The Outside

First thing first. Before fighting with your in-home enemies, make sure you do not bring pollen and other air contaminants from outside. Despite what many people think, the most polluted air is in the mornings, hence try not to open your windows during this period.

In fact, if you are allergic to certain pollen, you will likely have to keep your windows close the whole day and night and run an air-conditioner. Just a heads up, as stated at filterbuy.com/resources/can-you-be-allergic-to-air-conditioning/, an air-conditioner might contribute to your increased allergies if not maintained properly. Installing the proper filters and replacing them on a timely basis are crucial elements for combatting air conditioner allergy problems. Therefore, consider investing in a high-quality pre-filter and secondary filter designed to significantly boost the number of trapped pollutants.

Pet Allergens

Many people are allergic to fur but even more of them actually just react to pollen their dog is bringing from the outside. That’s why do not rush to conclusions and do not hurry to get rid of your naughty pet unless you are 100% that your severe symptoms are triggered by your dog’s hair, saliva, or urine. Instead, bathe your pet more often. You can just shower it without using shampoo. Wash your pet’s bedding and toys more frequently and if you are one of those to let your dog sleep in your bed, stop doing that immediately. Well, it’s much easier to say than to do, but still, give it a try.

Mold

Your home has plenty of areas that are great for breeding mold. Carefully inspect your kitchen, bathroom, and basement for eventual water leaks, and if any, fix them immediately. Never put carpets or rugs in such areas and think of using a dehumidifier to decrease the air humidity. Clean mold as soon as you spot it and keep an eye on this place to prevent the build-up.

Houseplants are also a source of mold, given that the dump soil is a real booster for this type of fungi. This is not to say you have to give away all your beloved plants, but consider getting rid of those that seek high humidity and consistent dampness of the soil. If there is a possibility, put them outside, on a balcony or terrace. Anyway, avoid overwatering as it’s bad for you and the health of your plant.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are tiny, and you can’t see them with the bare eye, but if you put them under the microscope, you’ll have no doubts that they are ugly. Apart from the disgusting look, they are also dangerous – many people blame them for triggering allergy symptoms. The bad news is they are everywhere around you as dust builds up very quickly to cover all the hard and soft surfaces. Your favorite coffee table, comfy sofa, and that fancy carpet in your living room. What is more, dust mites do not mind creeping into your bedding and curtains; to make a long story short, they prefer all the areas that are warm and humid. To fight a dust mite allergy, vacuum, clean, and dust more often as it’s the only viable way to win this battle.

Now you know which hidden allergens are hiding in your home and what to do to minimize their negative impact. The bottom line is that keeping your home clean is the first and the most important step to creating a healthy environment without tons of allergens.