Allergy-proof your home

Living room

Soft furnishings are allergy traps, especially if you have pets. Hair, dander (dead skin cells) and dust mite faeces can all become embedded in fabric fibres.

Vacuum regularly, paying special attention to cushion covers, curtains and throw.  If you’re replacing your vacuum cleaner, it’s worth looking at anti-allergy models that have a HEPA filter.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Hallway

Because of heavy foot traffic, the hallway is a particular dirt trap, particularly if you have carpet.

If allergies are a problem in your family, consider replacing carpet with laminate or real wood instead, which is easier to keep clean.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Kitchen

Some people are allergic to mould spores, so reduce the risk of a build-up by using an anti-mould and mildew solution around kitchen taps and on tiles, grout and hard surfaces.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Kitchen

Mould can build up inside the fridge, so keep on top of the problem by cleaning the inside regularly with a solution of baking soda and water, paying special attention to the door seals.

Remove excess moisture inside the fridge by wiping with a dry cloth, too.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Bathroom

Make sure there’s adequate ventilation in your bathroom, to prevent a build-up of mould. The best solution is to have an extractor fan fitted, but in the meantime open a window to allow steam to escape.

Dry or squeegee the shower after use and keep the basin and other surfaces dry, too.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Bathroom

Use an anti-mould and mildew solution regularly around taps and fittings, and on tiles and grouting.

Scrub with a toothbrush to clean less accessible places like behind the taps and around the shower head.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Bedroom

Dust accumulates in bedrooms, where there is often more clutter than elsewhere. Using a dry cloth will pick up some of the dust, but a lot of it will escape to re-settle elsewhere.

Damp dusting, using a slightly moist cloth, will help you to pick up far more dust.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Bedroom

Dust tends to gather under the bed, so make a point of moving the furniture around and vacuuming regularly.

Pay attention, too, to picture rails and skirtings. Thoroughly vacuum both sides of your mattress every few weeks, too.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z

Bedroom

Invest in an anti-allergy mattress cover and pillowcases. These can be really effective in reducing the problem. Wash sheets and pillowcases weekly and tumble dry if possible.

Shake duvets and pillows outside regularly. Discourage pets from coming into the bedroom.

See also:

• Your personal health check A-Z