How to Support Your Allergy-Prone Child in the Home

If you know your child has allergies, there are specific ways you can prepare his or her surroundings to help your child breathe easier and be more comfortable in the home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Air Filters
• Flitered Vacuums
• Allergy Free Matress Covers
• Allergy-free Bedding
• Dust Cloths
• Dustmops

1. Identify potential allergens - molds, dust, pollen, food and any other household items such as wool blankets, down pillows, perfumes, soaps and detergent.
2. Combat dust mites through regular vacuuming, dusting, damp mopping floors and washing cloth toys.
3. Use nontoxic chemicals when cleaning the house, especially in the child's room.
4. Store washable yet dust-collecting toys in airtight containers.
5. Use anti-allergen bedding, which encases mattresses, pillows, box springs and sheets in airtight coverings that are designed to let air in and out but cannot be penetrated by dust mites.
6. Control exposure to pollen by keeping your child indoors when the pollen count is high or on windy days. Keep windows closed for further prevention of exposure to pollen and dust mites.
7. Keep the family pet and baby in separate rooms or, even better, keep the pet outside. Wash the pet frequently, because animal fur can carry pollen and dust.
8. Eliminate molds through adequate ventilation and keeping the house dry. Use dehumidifiers and clean garbage cans, shower curtains, and bathroom tiles.
9. Be wary of household plants, and keep the child's sandbox covered.
10. Protect your child from exposure to secondhand smoke.
11. Avoid foods known to cause allergic reactions.

Tips & Warnings

• Explain to your child why these strategies are being used. Listen to your child's concerns and questions. Include him or her in the process of preparing the environment.