Bedrooms
Items that attract or hold allergens should be under scrutiny. Because so much time is spent in the bedroom, it's an important place to start - especially for family members who have asthma. Exchange draperies for smooth blinds or washable curtains. Wipe blinds weekly with a clean, damp cloth, and wash the curtains monthly. If possible, replace carpeting with vinyl, linoleum or wood flooring - carpets are a magnet for allergens.
Clean up clutter, and then keep closet drawers and doors closed. Set up a play area in another room where allergen-attracting stuffed animals and other toys can be stored.
Sheets should be washed weekly; blankets and bedspreads monthly. Flip your mattresses and vacuum them. Many allergies are triggered by the tiny dust mites in your bedding. Dust furniture weekly using a dusting product or a special cloth that attracts dust.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a prime source for mold and mildew because of the water and moisture. General preventative measures include wiping down shower walls after showering or bathing and keeping shower doors or curtains open so the walls can air dry. When possible, open a window or use an exhaust fan to air out the room and remove humidity during and after showering.Wipe up water around showers and tubs daily.Keep the areas under the sink and around the toilet dry and clean, and repair leaks immediately.
Give the shower stall and bathtub a thorough weekly cleaning. Be sure to remove all the soap scum; otherwise, it will act as a breeding ground for mildew. Other weekly maintenance includes washing towels, bathmats and any small area rugs.
Kitchen
Cockroaches are attracted to food and moisture, thus the kitchen is a potential source of allergens. Food spills, crumbs and liquids should be immediately cleaned off countertops and floors. Dishes should be washed and dried as soon as possible after eating. Food should be kept in closed containers. Cover any food, including pet food that will be left out overnight.
Clean food and grease from the stove daily and, if possible, clean under and behind the stove. The trash should also be emptied daily. Garbage cans and recycling bins should be cleaned and disinfected weekly. Floors should be washed weekly. As further precautions, keep the cabinet under the sink dry, and don't leave water sitting in an open container.
Check the kitchen for cracks around walls or cabinets where cockroaches can get in, and seal them up. If cockroaches should appear, use a bait or gel product to get rid of them, following instructions on the product.
Living Areas
Living areas should be kept clean and clutter-free. Smooth, easy-to-clean furniture, closed cabinets and plastic containers for toys, books and knick-knacks will make the task easier. If possible, use smooth blinds or shades.
Doorways, window frames and windowsills are gathering places for dust, pollen and mold spores. To keep these allergens under control clean and dry the window frames and sills regularly.
Use washable rugs at the doors, and wash them weekly. Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures at least monthly, using a clean, damp cloth. Use filters over air conditioning and heating vents. Clean the vents weekly by vacuuming or wiping them down with a damp cloth. If possible, change the filters regularly.
Control Clutter
Because clutter attracts dust, every room should be as clutter-free as possible. To achieve this, work one room at a time. Start by taking everything out of the closet, dresser, shelves, and under the bed or sofa (do not try to do all of this at the same time). Separate things into distinct piles, such as clothes, shoes, toys, books, etc. Donate or sell anything that is no longer needed.
Next, reorganize storage areas so that similar items are together. For example, keep school supplies near the desk or table where children do their homework, DVDs by the player and toys in the play area. Be sure children's things are in places that are easy for them to reach.
Wherever possible, store items inside drawers, closets, covered boxes, or plastic containers so dust won't collect on them. Label the containers so everyone knows where things belong. Review the clutter plan with all family members, especially children, and remind them that controlling clutter may help reduce asthma attacks. Work with them to develop the habit of putting one thing back before getting something else out.
Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2006/11/100380