Spring is definitely here and that means perfect weather for throwing open the windows. At the same time these open windows may allow outdoor allergens into the home. Add these to the list of indoor allergens and you can imagine the array of runny noses, itchy eyes and coughs that develop.
There are many allergens in our homes that we may not even see. Dust mites, molds, and pet danders to name a few.
Here are several ways to get a jump on controlling those indoor allergies. Begin by encasing your child's mattress, pillow and box spring in allergy proof covers that zip up. These are easily found at most department stores and needn't be expensive.
Wash all of the bedding at least once a week in hot water around 130 degrees. Try to de-clutter your child's bed of stuffed animals, and just have one favorite bedtime pal. Throw it in the wash at least once a week as well. (Good to have a back up).
If you have hardwood or tile floors instead of carpeting you have already eliminated a lot of the dust mite problem as carpeting harbors all sorts of dust and dander. For rooms that are carpeted daily vacuuming is helpful (kids job?) and low pile carpet is preferable to shag.
Mold is another culprit for allergies. Reducing humidity below 50% will help prevent mold and mildew build up. Use a ventilation fan in the bathroom to help lower the humidity or open a window for a while after showering.
We all love our pets but they shed, especially at this time of year. Their paws and fur may also bring outdoor pollens inside. Try wiping your pet down with a dryer sheet and it will not only reduce pet dander but will help to remove any loose pollen from their coat as well.
Lastly, check your air filters. Make the first of every month the time to clean or replace your air conditioner, furnace or dehumidifier filters. This will prevent dusty air from circulating throughout your home.
I'm Dr. Sue with The Kid's Doctor helping parents take charge.
There are many allergens in our homes that we may not even see. Dust mites, molds, and pet danders to name a few.
Here are several ways to get a jump on controlling those indoor allergies. Begin by encasing your child's mattress, pillow and box spring in allergy proof covers that zip up. These are easily found at most department stores and needn't be expensive.
Wash all of the bedding at least once a week in hot water around 130 degrees. Try to de-clutter your child's bed of stuffed animals, and just have one favorite bedtime pal. Throw it in the wash at least once a week as well. (Good to have a back up).
If you have hardwood or tile floors instead of carpeting you have already eliminated a lot of the dust mite problem as carpeting harbors all sorts of dust and dander. For rooms that are carpeted daily vacuuming is helpful (kids job?) and low pile carpet is preferable to shag.
Mold is another culprit for allergies. Reducing humidity below 50% will help prevent mold and mildew build up. Use a ventilation fan in the bathroom to help lower the humidity or open a window for a while after showering.
We all love our pets but they shed, especially at this time of year. Their paws and fur may also bring outdoor pollens inside. Try wiping your pet down with a dryer sheet and it will not only reduce pet dander but will help to remove any loose pollen from their coat as well.
Lastly, check your air filters. Make the first of every month the time to clean or replace your air conditioner, furnace or dehumidifier filters. This will prevent dusty air from circulating throughout your home.
I'm Dr. Sue with The Kid's Doctor helping parents take charge.
Dr.
Sue Hubbard is an award winning pediatrician and medical editor for
www.kidsdr.com. She is a native of Washington, D.C. who travelled south
to attend the University of Texas at Austin and never left. 
