4 Allergens That May Be In Your Home

By: Emilie Sims

Springtime is finally here, and for some people that means warmer weather, blooming flowers and chirping birds. But for approximately 40 million Americans, the advent of the spring season also means runny noses, sneezing and watery eyes.

Allergens are not limited to the outdoors. In fact, there are a number of allergens that could be hiding in your home this season, increasing your risk of falling prey to seasonal allergies.

Understanding what’s causing your allergies is the first step in combating the season of scratchy throats, congestion and sniffles. These four allergens are commonly found indoors:

1. Pollen

Pollen can make its way indoors through open windows or doors, clothing or pet fur. It’s one of the most common allergy triggers that millions of Americans suffer from each spring as pollen-producing plants start to bloom. Pollen can travel far through the wind.

2. Dust

Dust can be made up of dead skin cells, fabric fibers, dust mites and their waste, pet dander and more. Dust is another common cause for allergies inside the home and is a major allergy source for people year-round.

3. Dust mites

Dust mites thrive on dust and their waste causes allergy symptoms in the home. These microscopic insects are concentrated in areas with more dust, dander and humidity.

4. Pet dander

Pet hair can collect dander, a protein found in fluids secreted from the animal. Dander is another common indoor allergy source. Pet dander is found in pet hair and can also be carried in through clothing.

Other common springtime allergens may also be carried in from outside on clothing, skin or shoes. To reduce the number of allergens in your home, take extra steps to ensure your home’s health this spring. Vacuuming and dusting regularly lessens the amount of dust that settles in your carpet and on surfaces. Keeping windows and doors closed will prevent pollen and other airborne allergens from entering your home uninvited. Dry all your laundry indoors during the spring to prevent clothing from attracting pollen or other allergens.

Though unfortunately there is no cure to make pesky spring allergies go away for good, these tips can help you combat allergens in your home and improve your home’s overall air quality. If you are interested in investing in a whole house air purifier for your home, contact your Comfort Company for more details – we want to make you more comfortable this spring!