How to Reduce Allergens in the Bathroom

May is National Allergy/Asthma Awareness Month. Itching, sneezing, runny nose - there’s nothing more irritating than those pesky allergens that creep inside your home. One of biggest problem areas in the house? It may surprise you, but your bathroom is the number one spot. Why? Because moisture makes it easy for allergy-producing molds to build up. So take action and protect yourself from allergens with these five tips: 

Clean up. Wipe down surfaces daily, starting with sinks and countertops. Next, tidy up the shower. With all the humidity that accumulates after a hot shower, you’ll want to prevent mold from building up. A mildew-fighting spray or bleach solution can scrub away the growth of fungus in minutes.

Clear the air. Pollen, dust, and pet dander are three of the major allergy triggers that you definitely want to fight off. Indoor air circulation can blow these airborne allergens around the house, making you more irritable. Try an air cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap harmful particles in the air.

Reduce humidity. Combine a hot shower with poor ventilation and you have yourself a mold and mildew problem. Not only that, but moisture alone creates a “breeding ground” for allergens. To combat the issue, keep humidity 50 percent or less and toss your damp towel in the washer/dryer.

Remodel. There’s a number of strategies you can implement to reduce allergens in your bathroom with a simple remodeling plan. Replacing carpet with tile, wood, or vinyl can tame sneezing by eliminating dust and other allergens that stick. When looking for new decor, select washable rugs and clean them often. Do you have wallpaper? Rip it down for a coat of fresh paint to prevent mold growth.

Fix Leaks. A leaky pipe or toilet can cause water to seep into drywall and insulation, and damage your floors and walls. It’s important to keep up on bathroom maintenance to prevent potential problems that can bring on more allergy discomfort. Fix plumbing leaks before mold and mildew sneak up on you.

For more home improvement tips, turn to Nassau County Plumbing and Sewer Rooter. Need help fixing a leaky pipe? We provide leak detection and repair services across Long Island. Give us a call at 516.874.7937 or visit our website for more information.