Reducing allergens in Pacific Northwest homes has gotten complicated with all the advice flying around online. As someone who’s helped hundreds of allergy sufferers in the Seattle area tackle their indoor air problems, I learned everything there is to know about what actually works. Today, I’ll share it all with you.
Identify Common Allergens
Probably should have led with this section, honestly — you need to know what you’re fighting. The most common allergens in Northwest homes are dust mites, mold, pet dander, and pollen. Dust mites love humid conditions (and we’ve got plenty of humidity here). Mold pops up in damp spots like basements and bathrooms. Pet dander accumulates in any home with animals. Pollen sneaks in through windows and doors.
Control Humidity Levels
That’s what makes humidity control endearing to us Northwest allergy sufferers — it tackles multiple problems at once. Keeping indoor humidity between 30%-50% reduces dust mites and mold growth. Dehumidifiers help control moisture. Proper ventilation in damp-prone areas makes a real difference. In bathrooms, run exhaust fans during and after showers. Fix leaks promptly before moisture builds up.
Clean Regularly and Thoroughly
Dust and vacuum frequently to minimize dust and pet dander. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap the small particles that matter most. Wash bedding, curtains, and other fabrics in hot water weekly. Dust-proof covers on mattresses and pillows reduce dust mite exposure where you spend eight hours every night.
Reduce Pet Dander
Groom pets regularly to cut down on shedding. Bathe them frequently using pet-specific shampoos. Keep pets out of bedrooms and off furniture — I know this is hard, but your sinuses will thank you. Air purifiers with HEPA filters capture airborne pet dander that grooming alone misses.
Minimize Pollen Intrusion
Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen seasons. Use air conditioning instead of open windows. Install a HEPA filter in your HVAC system. Change those filters regularly to maintain air quality — a clogged filter does nothing for you.
Combat Mold Growth
Clean visible mold with water and detergent. Skip bleach on porous surfaces where it doesn’t penetrate properly. Ensure good air circulation in damp areas. Use mold-resistant paint in bathrooms and basements. If items have mold growth beyond what cleaning can fix, dispose of them or have them professionally remediated.
Utilize Air Purifiers
Place air purifiers in common areas and bedrooms where you spend the most time. Choose purifiers with HEPA filters to capture fine particles. Keep doors and windows closed to maximize efficiency — running a purifier with open windows wastes money and effort.
Improve Ventilation
Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms. Keep air ducts clean and unobstructed. Periodically inspect and maintain HVAC systems for optimal performance. Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) improve air exchange without losing heat — particularly useful in our climate where you don’t want cold air rushing in during winter.
Choose Allergen-Resistant Furnishings
Hard-surface floors beat carpets every time for allergy control. Hardwood, tile, or linoleum are easier to clean and don’t harbor allergens like carpet fibers do. Furniture made of leather, wood, metal, or plastic accumulates fewer allergens than upholstered pieces.
Limit Outdoor Allergens
Shower and change clothes after spending time outdoors during pollen season. Dry laundry indoors when pollen counts are high. Rinse your pets’ paws after they’ve been outside to minimize tracking pollen through the house. Landscaping with low-pollen plants helps reduce what’s floating around your property in the first place.
Conduct Regular Inspections
Check periodically for signs of moisture and dampness. Look for leaks or water damage that could foster mold growth. Inspect cleaning tools like vacuums and air purifiers to ensure they’re functioning correctly — a malfunctioning HEPA filter defeats the whole purpose. Staying ahead of problems prevents them from becoming major allergen sources.
