10th March 2010 - Dust collection


Furniture such as wood and leather are less likely to collect dust than furniture covered in material. Material attracts dust and holds it in the fabric patterns, become a breeding ground for allergy related problems. The same concept follows over to window treatments. Using wood blinds, faux wood blinds, or wood or aluminum mini-blinds can help reduce the amount of dust build-up. Some faux wood materials have anti-static properties that repel dust.

Most wood and faux wood blinds and mini-blinds are easy to clean and should be cleaned at least once a week. Wood blinds can remain hanging for cleaning and a quick wipe with a damp cloth will get rid of allergy triggers. The same goes for aluminum mini-blinds. Some blinds require removing them from the wall to clean, however, wood and faux wood do not.

Cleaning the house, once a week, including window treatments can help alleviate a lot of allergy symptoms and create a safe haven for allergy sufferers.


5th April 2010 - Make your home allergy free


Do you have allergies? Your home should be a safe haven and not a place that resounds with your sneezing and sniffling. Let's start with the basics to make your home as hypoallergenic as possible.

The floors should be hard, such as wood, tile, marble or linoleum. Carpets, unfortunately, attract dust mites, which become airborne when you walk on the carpet; and then you inhale and — aaachooo!

If too much hard flooring seems unlivable, add area rugs that can be removed and cleaned on a regular basis. A throw rug by the bed makes getting up in the morning a little more comfortable underfoot. An area rug in the family room helps make the room feel more homey and comfortable.

Perhaps your allergies aren't that bad. OK, so you can keep your carpet, but be sure to vacuum regularly — and that doesn't mean just once a week. Vacuuming should be done at least three times a week to keep those dust mites in check. Some manufacturers suggest vacuuming daily. And don't forget to move the furniture and vacuum in those hiding places.

The walls should be wallpaper-free wherever possible. If wallpaper is a must, use smooth paper and not any grass cloth or nubby-type paper. Wipe the walls (papered or not) often because dust can settle and the incessant sneezing will start. Minimum wood trim on the walls is better because dust gathers easily in the crevices of the wood.

Leather furniture is ideal for those with allergies, as the dust mites can't live or colonize in leather or vinyl. If replacing your current upholstery with leather isn't feasible, get that vacuum out again and vacuum the furniture frequently. Another thought is to use throws or washable slipcovers on the couch or chairs.

Window shutters or wood blinds are better than cloth draperies in that they can be wiped clean regularly. Draperies can be dry-cleaned, but that is a chore and an expense.

What if you have pets? Frequent washing and brushing of pets is best. Consider creating a pet-free area in the family room and the bedroom where you spend most of your time. Dogs can be trained to stay in a certain area. A special dog bed or rug that can be washed easily and frequently is a good idea.

Cats are tougher, as they have minds of their own, plus the reactions they give us are worse in that the cat doesn't have to be in the room for allergens to be present. The allergens from cats are airborne and come from their personal grooming. Be sure to vacuum and wash clothes and fabrics frequently.

If all else fails, keep those tissues handy.


17th May 2010 - Close your blinds and protect your home


When going away, be sure all windows are locked and your blinds are shut.

"If you do have electronics like plasma TVs or camcorders or just cameras or ipods laying around the house, you probably want to put your drivers license number on it," said Miller. He said the police department has an instrument you can borrow to engrave your information on them.

Other tips include asking your neighbors to bring in your mail and newspapers so they don't pile up outside your house, asking your neighbors to walk around your house to see if anything looks out of place, having lights with timers on inside and possibly leaving a TV or stereo on for some sound.

It is recommended you make a checklist before you leave your house so you don't forget anything.