I’m posting this in response to Mom Central’s call for posts alerting people to some tips for breathing easier this season. Spring is a beautiful time when everything comes alive outdoors, at least it’s beautiful for those of us that don’t have allergies!
For allergy sufferers, spring can be a very frustrating time, those who can, head indoors for relief. But that may be the worst thing they can do – indoor air quality can be even worst. My husband sometimes has trouble breathing, we’re not sure if it’s dust, pet or pollen but there is often something that gets to his throat.
I’m always careful to clean without kicking up the dust but what would be the biggest help would be to upgrade to a laminate floor… our carpet is the major dust/allergen keeper in the house.
Dr. Neil Schachter, M.D., past president of the American Lung Association of the City of New York, suggests a “home health check-up” to help make your home a healthier place to live. He recommends avoiding cleaning products that contain ammonia or chlorine, and limiting your pet’s access to certain areas of the home, including the bedroom.
We do keep the dog out of the master bedroom (also carpeted – boo) but we don’t have a filter, I really would like to get one but I hate to be disappointed. So, for now I’ve joined the Clean Air Club. I like to get informative newsletters, they promise to have special offers, filter change reminders, better home living tips and more. Plus, the first 50 people to sign up each week will receive a free bamboo plant – a natural air purifier.
If you’d like more information, please visit www.Filtrete.com there’s also a chance to win a home inspection by Steve Ramos from HGTV’s House Detective.
My top 3 favorite Dr. Schachter tips:
- Houseplants…a clean air ally – Common indoor houseplants, such as bamboo plants, English ivy and peace lily, can provide a natural way to help fight against rising levels of indoor air pollution by absorbing some potentially harmful gases. A six-inch potted green plant can clean a room of excess carbon dioxide in eight hours2.
- Lay area rugs instead of wall-to-wall carpeting – Wall-to-wall carpeting can attract and hold indoor dirt, pollen, pet hair and mold spores and many contain chemicals. Vacuuming can remove some surface dirt, but often, the vacuum can actually push pollutants deeper into carpet fibers. Area rugs are best since they can be picked up and cleaned thoroughly.
- Leave shoes outside – Avoid bringing contaminated outdoor pollutants indoors by removing your shoes before entering the home. Wearing shoes indoors can track particles that can become airborne, including animal dander, mold spores, pollen and bacteria.
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