Remove Allergens

If you suffer from hay fever, you may not think of your kitchen as a breeding ground for some of your biggest symptom triggers. But the fact is that allergens can lurk even in places where you least expect them. That's why the experts stress the importance of remove allergens in your kitchen. Here are some important tips to help you recognize -- and also remove -- some of your biggest potential allergy offenders.

Prevent Dust Mites

Many people with allergies find that dust mites can set off their symptoms. And while dust mites can certainly be prominent throughout your home, they typically thrive in places that are high in humidity, which can certainly describe your kitchen and bathroom.

  • To help avoid this situation, it is essential to make sure you use a vented exhaust fan over your stove in order to remove cooking fumes and the moisture they can cause that can attract dust mites and cause your allergies.
  • You may also need a dehumidifier to help remove extra moisture in your air that can cause your worst allergy symptoms to flare.

Avoid Mold

Mold is also another big allergy trigger than can linger in your kitchen. There are several ways to try to keep this substance from growing in this common room.

  • Make sure to wash your dirty dishes right away and keep your sink and countertops clean.
  • In addition, throw away old food and scraps to prevent them from becoming a breeding ground for mold.
  • You should also remember that keeping your refrigerator sparkling inside and out can also help to prevent moisture that can lead to mold growth.
  • Finally, don't forget to also empty and clean the pan underneath, as well, where the drippings land.

Keep Bugs Away

Cockroaches can be another source that sparks your allergy symptoms. But with a little extra effort you should be away to keep them away.

  • Avoid leaving food out for any period of time.
  • Clean up immediately after cooking and serving meals, rather than leaving the mess to deal with later.
  • Make sure all food is stored in tightly sealed containers on your countertops and in your cabinets.
  • Select a garbage can that has a lid that seals to keep bugs from getting in.
  • Sweep or vacuum the floor regularly and wipe countertops down to remove any crumbs.

Eat Away Your Symptoms

By making an extra effort to keep your kitchen fresh and spotless, you may be able to eat away at your worst allergy symptoms. If these steps aren't enough to offer complete relief, you can also talk to an allergist for further suggestions and can also try some of the latest medications to help control your symptoms.

Sources:

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology

http://aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/indoorallergens.stm