Many of us have allergies and asthmatic symptoms which can be annoying and troublesome if irritants aren’t controlled within your home. Below are six steps you can take today to help eliminate irritable agents.

Mold

Mold is a common occurrence in homes, especially in bathrooms where moisture accumulates. If you find a leak around your water heater, sink, toilet, pipes, or any other area that comes into contact with water, fix it immediately. Fixing the leak quickly eliminates the possibility for mold. Also, be sure to run ventilation fans in the bathroom and kitchen.

Chemicals

These can be aerosols, glue, air fresheners, paints, scented detergents, and other fragrances common in your household. If any of these make your symptoms worse, consider changing to more organic cleaning agents and fresheners.

Pets

We all love our pets. However, pets shed, bring in debris from outside, sleep where they shouldn’t, and other nuisances that can cause irritability. Keeping indoor pets on wood floors and off furniture, especially the bed, can help keep your allergy or asthma symptoms under control. If applicable, keep your pet outdoors as much as possible.

Dust

If dust becomes a problem, you may want to consider replacing your carpet with wood flooring and using plastic or allergen-proof fabric on your bed and pillow cases. Wash your pillow cases and bedding at least once a week in hot water at or above 130 degrees. You should also replace your sheets and comforters every once in a while. Replacing your sheets and comforter can help keep allergens from building up your home. You may also want to consider using a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air filter to collect dust otherwise missed.

Pests

Insects and rodents can wreak havoc on your home. Cleaning cabinets, underneath the refrigerator and stove, and fixing cracks is a great first step to stopping pests. Make sure you place a lid on all garbage receptacles and tightly close all food items as well.

Pollutants

Pollutants can come in the form of many things, but one of the most common sources of pollutants is the fireplace. This is especially true if you have a wood-burning fireplace or stove and are using moist wood. Always be sure to dry the wood properly and regularly clean your chimney if it is often used.

If you have allergies or asthma, you do not have to live with the symptoms in your home. Be sure to follow the steps above to take control of your asthma and allergies immediately.