ALLERGY-PROOF YOUR ENVIRONMENT (part 2)
The Floor
New carpet loses its strong chemical odor over time, but as it ages, it becomes a haven for microorganisms-dust mites, mold spores, animal dander, and the like. A University of Virginia study found that carpets accumulate allergens at one hundred times the rate of a bare floor. If possible, carpets should be replaced. The ideal nonallergenic floor is a hardwood, tile, or vinyl surface that can be cleaned with a wet mop-twice a week, at least-and covered with small washable rugs. Don’t use brooms; they stir up too much dust.The best vacuum to buy is a tank-type with strong suction and an extension on the hose so that the canister can sit outside the room during vacuuming. Dust-filtering bags are available from allergy supply companies for $ 6 to $ 10 for a set of five. Leave the task of changing them to someone else. Many new and more expensive ($ 400 and up ) vacuum cleaners come equipped with HEPA ( high efficiency particulate arresting ) filters specially designed to trap fine particles as small as . 3 microns. ( A micron is ”/, mw of a millimeter .) Consumer Reports studied vacuum cleaners in 1997 and reported : ” If someone in your family has asthma or allergies, consider using one of the high-performing models as your regular vacuum cleaner. Many airborne allergens-notably pollens-are much larger than the particle sizes we tested, so cleaners that performed well on our tests will also trap the larger particles effectively. But don’t expect a high-filtration vacuum cleaner to substitute for longer-lasting environmental controls, such as removing carpeting or encasing bedding in mite-proof covers .”
The Windows
Roll-down shades and. unlined washable curtains are preferable to dust-catching blinds and draperies. Keep windows closed during pollen season and at peak pollen hours, usually 5 A. M. to 10 A. M. Use central or room air conditioning switched to the ” recycle ” or ” recirculate ” setting. Air conditioners are great pollen traps, so clean them and change filters scrupulously. If possible, avoid heavy draperies and Venetian blinds in favor of light cotton or synthetic curtains that can be washed regularly. Shades are fine if dusted at least once a week.
The Bathroom
Prevent molds from growing by wiping down shower curtains, walls, tub, toilet, tile, and all damp areas with a mixture of cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water ( or one part bleach to ten parts water ) at least once a month. Four times a year use Zephiran ( benzalkonium chloride ), 1 fluid ounce to 1 gallon of water, to further inhibit mold growth. Allow plenty of ventilation, and let surfaces air-dry-or better yet, install an exhaust fan. Keep as few toxic cleaning products and pesticides in the kitchen as possible. ( See chapter 17 for nontoxic substitutes .)
