Allergies and The Living Room

Allergies and The Living Room Previous Page.........

Allergies and The Living Room next page........

Ventilation

This is often underestimated in homes. You can't beat natural airflow from open windows and doors. Seasonal problems with pollens and grasses could effect some individuals here - so pick you time to do this.

Walls

Keep wall as flush as possible as decorative trim muldings, and textured wallpapers are dust catchers. A smooth washable paint finish is ideal. If you already have a collection of dado rails, picture rails, large moulded skirtings etc - get out a damp cloth and keep them dust free.

Furniture

Another home for dust mites. When purchasing or recovering your sofas or chairs select a fabric in which dust mites cannot colonise eg leather or vinyl.

If you have existing furniture that is not finished in these products - vacuum frequently to remove some of the mite allergen - it won't remove the live mites but you'll feel like you've given it your best shot.

Try using throws of chairs and couches as these can be readily washed to remove mites and allergens.
Cane or Rattan furniture avoid, as it is a nightmare to clean and keep free of dust.

A leather lounge suite doesn't allow dust mites to colonise.

Soft Furnishings and Window Treatments

Cushions - select fabric and inners that can be washed and tumble dried, this is useful not only for getting rid of mites and allergen but for the wayward glass of red wine or children's ice-cream!

Curtains and Drapes. Once again select fabrics that can be washed, slimline venetian blinds collect dust and are difficult to clean at home. I have been seen scrubbing blinds with a nail brush in the bath - the blinds are in the bath not me! Double-Glazing is an ideal solution for insulation and preventing condensation which often causes mould growth.

Decoration and Electrical Equipment

Bookshelves and bric a brac are marvelous dust catchers - where ever possible - store precious knick knacks behind glass doors in display cabinets. This will cut down the dusting required and reduce the risk of breakage from frequent cleaning and handling. TV's and Stereos are best kept in cabinets. They are difficult to clean and their static nature attracts the dust. Any built in furniture shelving is best to go full height, cutting out another out of reach surface to clean.

This carved chest has intricate detail, a fantastic dust collector!