Feeling a little helpless? There’s actually a lot you can do to make your child’s world less ‘allergenic.”  Here are a few handy tips:

For Seasonal Allergies

1. Reduce Plant Materials
Pollen is the #1 cause of seasonal allergies.  Trees account for 10% of all allergies in the United States, grasses account for about 30%,and ragweed accounts for nearly 60% of all allergies.  Keep trees and shrubs pruned, and eliminate all unnecessary vegetation, including houseplants and decorative bouquets indoors.

2. Keep Windows Closed
Because pollen is carried by the wind, it’s in the air everywhere. So keep windows closed even if you have no pollen-producing plants nearby.  Air conditioners actually filter pollen and other allergens out of the air as they keep you cool.

3. Change Filters Regularly

Furnace and air conditioning filers take many allergens out of the air.  However, they build up on the filters.  To filter them out and keep them out, change filters once a month.

For All Other Types of Allergies

1. Eliminate “Dust-Collectors”
Knickknacks and clutter collect dust and are hard to clean.  Ger rid of unnecessary objects and display valuables in a glass case that’s easier to clean.

2. Keep Bedding Clean
Over one-third of your child’s life is spent in the bedroom so keep it clean! Wash bedding in hot water every week, use allergen-proof cases for pillows and mattresses, and consider getting rid of wall-to-wall carpeting.  Minimize use of heavy draperies or Venetian blinds, which catch a lot of dust.