Are You Allergic To Your Home? Proper Spring Cleaning Can Combat Allergens

Main Category: Allergy
Also Included In: Preventive Medicine
Article Date: 21 May 2008 - 2:00 PDT

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As allergy-sufferers nationwide tackle their nose nemeses or keep scratching their heads - literally - in the quest to identify the source of their allergen angst, they can consider these tips for combating allergies in the home.

The most common allergens are dust mites and animal dander found mostly inside, not outside, the home sweet home. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) also lists cockroaches as common allergens, especially in inner cities or southern parts of the United States.

Perfume, room deodorizers, harsh cleaning chemicals, paint, and talcum powder are also known allergens and asthma triggers to reduce or avoid altogether.

May presents a great opportunity to:

- Replace air conditioning filters to help reduce the dust settlement,

- Incorporate humidifiers or other air filters in the home to help prevent dust mites

- Employ the use of non-toxic or natural household cleaners

- Replace artificially scented items with naturally scented oils and soy-based products

- Consider future use of Low-VOC paint

The AAFA states that allergy is the 5th leading chronic disease in the U.S. among all ages, and the 3rd most common chronic disease among children under 18 years old (according to the National Academy on an Aging Society).

"There is little we can do about external allergens, but there are many preventative measures we can take inside our homes," said Dr. Alan Greene, renowned medical expert, author and speaker. "It is important to avoid obsessively over cleaning your home, therefore preventing allergen immunities from forming. Instead, use non-toxic cleaning products and omit other irritants from the immediate environment."

To help combat allergens, Seventh Generation offers a full range of cleaning products that are free of fragrances, dyes and toxins - perfect for those cleaning a home with an allergy or asthma sufferer. Seventh Generation Free & Clear Starter Kits are available to help create and maintain a healthy home.

For more on National Allergy and Asthma Awareness Month please visit the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America at http://www.aafa.org.

About Seventh Generation

For 20 years, the closely held Burlington, Vermont company has been at the forefront of a cultural change in consumer behavior and business ethics. One of the country's first self-declared "socially responsible" companies, Seventh Generation is committed to becoming the world's most trusted brand of authentic, safe, and environmentally responsible products for a healthy home. Seventh Generation markets and distributes through natural food stores, supermarkets, on-line stores like Amazon.com and mail-order catalogs in the United States and Canada.

Seventh Generation

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