As experienced Flower Mound real estate professionals, we understand that moving into a home that has been previously lived in can open you up to a host of allergens. While the home has likely been cleaned by the previous homeowners, allergens may still be present, bringing on a runny nose, itchy eyes, even asthma or other respiratory conditions. At Team Nelson, we have a few tips to help you fight allergens before you move in to your new home.
Destroy the dust. Allergy sufferers often find dust and pollen unbearable. How to beat it? Consider roller shades in place of window blinds, as they are simpler to clean and tend to attract less dust. If you prefer to keep the blinds, remove them and place in the tub for a soapy soak before re-hanging. Blinds in the bedroom can be a nightmare for allergy sufferers, who spend 8 or 9 hours sleeping while breathing in airborne allergens!
Steam cleaning and a wet vac may be the solution for soft surfaces. Dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens can easily get trapped in soft surfaces including curtains and carpets. While vacuuming removes many allergens, sometimes it isn’t enough. Consider renting a steam cleaner for carpets, or replacing it with hardwood, laminate, or another type of flooring. In addition, wet vacuuming can wash carpets, eliminating many dust mites according to WebMD. Dry vacuuming often stirs dust around, which can make breathing even harder for allergy sufferers.
Eliminate mold. In the bathroom or under the kitchen sink, mold can be an invisible allergen. Areas that are damp and dark tend to attract mold. While mold may be evident in the tub or shower, it may also be present on a shower curtain and/or liner. Don’t clean it – simply buy a new one. Check under all sinks or anywhere plumbing fixtures exist for the presence of mold. If you suspect mold, spritz down fixtures and the general area with a water/bleach solution made of one part bleach to four parts water. Wipe fixtures and surfaces down with a clean sponge or cloth.
Remove airborne particles with an air purifier. Whether a whole-home system or room size, air purifiers work to filter the air, removing many allergens including household dust, tobacco smoke, and pet dander. After you have implemented all of the tips above, finish up purifying your new Flower Mound home with an air purifier. There are many types to choose from, but this article at the New York Times will give you further information to help make the right choice for your needs.
At Team Nelson, we want you to enjoy your new home – without allergy triggers. Looking to buy a new home in the Dallas metro area, or sell the home you currently live in? Give our realtors a call today.