Did you know that over 15 million Americans suffer from asthma?
Asthma can start at any time in your life, and it can be caused by a mix of factors, including your environment (dust mites and house dander in your home), your lifestyle (the toxin levels that you are exposed to), and your genetics.
Even if you have a genetic predisposition to asthma, you can still control the symptoms of an asthma “attack” or “inflammation” by keeping your home clean and reducing the level of toxins you are exposed to.
Avoid irritants that can trigger your asthma – like smoke, stress, and allergies (which is one of the main causes of asthma attacks).
Switch to cleaning products that are non-toxic. Green cleaning products are better for those with allergies, but read labels carefully, as some of these products still contain irritating substances.
Some of the best anti-allergy cleaning solutions can be found right in your own home. Baking soda and vinegar work wonders in the natural cleaning world. Homemade solutions made from these products can keep your home spotless and clean for a minimal cost and at a minimal hazard. If the smell of vinegar bothers you, add some drops of lemon juice to your solution.
Carpet in the home can be a haven for allergens. To reduce the amount of pollen coming into your home and sticking to the carpet, try and mandate a “no shoes indoors” policy. Vacuum high traffic areas with a HEPA filter vacuum. Don’t forget about bath and area rugs.
Consider buying or renting a vapor-steam cleaner, which is very effective in wiping out germs, grime, and dust from floors, furniture, drapes, tiles, and countertops without aggravating allergies. Do not mistake the vapor-steam cleaner with the water-extraction cleaner, which uses a chemical cleaning solution and water that can contribute to mold and mildew.
If you have allergies and asthma, you can get them under control. An allergy management plan should start in the home because home cleaning reduces the amount of allergens which can help alleviate allergy symptoms.
