Frequent vacuuming is recommended for the removal of surface allergen from carpets. However, many vacuum cleaners leak, blowing allergy-causing particles (allergens) into the air. Allergen leakage may occur through poor connections of hosing and wands, through the dust collecting bag, around the closing seam of the unit, and through the exhaust. Allergen containment is an important consideration in evaluating the performance of your vacuum.
Although there are many components in house dust to which people may be allergic, the biggest culprit is the dust mite. Dust mites are eight-legged arachnids, relatives of the spider. The dust mite is microscopic and therefore cannot be seen by the human eye. Dust mites are the largest offender in house dust worldwide and are the single, most important allergen associated with asthma. Thriving in humid, dark and warm environments, they make their homes primarily in pillows, mattresses, carpets and upholstered furniture, burrowing themselves deep into the fabric. Our homes are inundated with these microscopic, insect-like creatures and their debris, creating a hazardous environment for the allergy sufferer. It is virtually impossible to completely eliminate dust mites from your home, just as it is impossible to "cure" allergies.
Mold flourishes in dark, damp and poorly ventilated places, is found both indoors and outdoors, and is a common allergy trigger. Indoors, mold is generally found in basements, closets, kitchens, bathrooms and crawl spaces. Plumbing leaks and other areas where water accumulates are trigger areas for mold growth, as are houseplants. Outdoors, mold spores are widely disbursed in the air and far outnumber pollen grains. They too, can enter the home. Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier in times of high humidity. To help trap airborne allergens, use a special air conditioner filter and/or a HEPA room air cleaner. Convection heat units can make mold spores non-viable and reduce the spread of mildew. Avoid over-humidification in the winter. Keep humidifier mold-free by cleaning with a diluted bleach solution or white vinegar. Central humidifiers should be checked and cleaned frequently. Clean all visible mold from walls and ceilings. Add a mold inhibitor to paint before applying. Mold is present on the bark of wood. If using a fireplace or wood burning stove, do not store any firewood inside.
