Step 5 – Living Areas
When
children play and crawl on the floor, they can breathe in allergens. Keep
carpets, furniture and curtains as clean and dust free as possible. All home
furnishing should be professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Cleaning frequency
is based on the number of people in the home, if you have pets of smokers
and the amount of outside dust and pollution.
When
you vacuum, some of the allergens trapped in carpets and upholstery are thrown
into the air. Whenever possible, have a non-allergic person do the vacuuming.
Or, wear a dust mask and goggles if eye allergies are a problem.
Use a vacuum that has HEPA (99.7% efficient) filter and/or exhaust filter; or use a special bag that holds allergens inside the bag. Vacuum at least once a week and more often if you have a pet. Empty the bag when it’s half full (or throw it away if disposable). An upright vacuum or canister with a powered head is best for carpet. A canister vacuum without a powered nozzle is fine for cleaning upholstery, draperies, blinds and light dusting.
Mold and germs grow in wet or damp carpeting. Carpets that have been damp or wet for more than 24 hours should be removed or professionally cleaned and restored.
- Have carpets, upholstery, area rugs and mattresses professional cleaned on a regular basis.
- Vacuum carpets at least once a week using a HEPA filter vacuum cleaner.
- Do not allow carpet to remain damp or wet for longer than 24 hours.
- Clean and dry window frames and sills regularly.
- Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures at least monthly.
- Use washable rugs at doors to catch dust, pollen and soil. Wash rugs at least monthly.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture regularly.
- Damp mop hard surface floors at least weekly.
Dirty carpets and fabrics hold dust mites + pollen + animal dander = allergies
- Step 1 - Start with an Allergen-Control Plan
- Step 2 - Bedrooms
- Step 3 - Bathrooms
- Step 4 - Kitchen
- Step 5 - Living Areas
- Step 6 - Air Handling System
- Step 7 - Cleaning Products
- Step 8 - The Clutter Plan
- Step 9 - Water Incursion
- Step 10 - Cleaning if You Have Allergies or Asthma
- Step 11 - Allergy Free Cleaning Products