If you have allergies, you understand how difficult it is to suffer from symptoms when you try to relax at home. This may beg the question: Can vacuum cleaners really help allergies?
Whether you are one of the best vacuum cleaners on the market or not, vacuuming can make a big difference in helping to solve allergies caused by dust, dander, pollen and dust mites, experts say.
However, there are some caveats, such as the techniques you use and what you vacuum – you’ll need to tackle more than just the carpet.
Can Vacuum Cleaners Really Help Allergies?
We asked cleaning professionals why vacuum cleaners really help with allergies and how to vacuum properly for the biggest difference.
The short answer is yes, vacuuming can help reduce allergy symptoms by targeting common allergens, remove dust And getting rid of dust mites around your house,” says Laura Avila, cleaning expert and founder of CleaningFan. It can also help remove outside pollen and pet dander.
The secret, though, is to vacuum everything around your home, she adds. ‘Think carpets, rugs and upholstery,’ says Laura. When these allergens build up, they can cause allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, coughing and itching. Proper vacuuming can help reduce the number of allergens in the home, leading to cleaner air and fewer allergy symptoms.’
“As an owner of a professional cleaning service and as a person with allergies, I believe that vacuuming can help alleviate the symptoms,” agrees Chi Ip, professional cleaner and owner of Tidy cleaning services here. “Make sure you use a vacuum with an allergen or HEPA filter and vacuum not only the floors, but also the sofa, cupboards, shelves and bed,” he adds.
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Expert tips to make your vacuum cleaner more effective against allergens
1. Choose one with a HEPA filter
“Regardless of which model of vacuum you choose, it’s important to choose a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter,” says Sholom Rosenbloom, owner of Rosenbloom Pest Control in Baltimore, MD. “These filters are designed to trap small particles such as dust and allergens so they don’t end up back in the air.”
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2. Master the technique
Vacuuming to reduce allergy symptoms goes beyond having a HEPA vacuum cleaner like the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair, however, as Paulo Filho, owner and cleaner of Celestial Cleaning Service points out. Knowing how to vacuum properly, how often to vacuum carpets and if you should dust or vacuum first.
“The key is to move the cleaner quickly forward and slowly backward,” explains Paulo. ‘This technique allows the vacuum cleaner to effectively suck up dirt and debris. It’s also important to vacuum in different directions to make sure you cover all areas of your carpet or floor.”
Many modern vacuum cleaners have multiple height settings for different surfaces, and choosing the right one is essential to get the perfect suction for microparticles like dust, advises cleaning expert Laura Avila – this is especially important when moving from cabinet tops to sofas to floors. For example.
3. Take good care of your vacuum cleaner
‘It is crucial to keep your vacuum cleaner clean and well maintained,’ adds Paulo Filho. ‘Empty the dust collector regularly and replace or clean the filter if necessary. A dirty or clogged filter can reduce the effectiveness of the vacuum cleaner and even release allergens back into the air.’ This is also a great way to prevent a vacuum cleaner from smellingat.
Why good vacuuming is important for allergy sufferers
Of all cleaning tips we’ve amassed over the years, vacuuming properly is one of the most important yet underappreciated steps to a truly clean home. “Cleaning properly is important because it can help remove allergens and pollutants from your home, leading to cleaner air and a healthier environment,” explains professional cleaner Laura Avila of CleaningFan.
“If you don’t vacuum properly or use a vacuum that isn’t equipped to remove allergens, you may be throwing more dust and allergens into the air, which can make allergy symptoms worse. Proper vacuuming can also help extend the life of your carpets and floors by removing dirt and debris that can wear down fibers over time.”
Another good tip is to combine a good vacuum cleaner with one of the best air purifiers helps filter dust generated by vacuuming or dusting, capturing airborne dust, pollen, hair and dander before it settles in your upholstery and furniture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of vacuum cleaner is best for allergies?
If you have severe allergies, a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is recommended to more effectively capture dust and other allergens. A vacuum cleaner with a multi-level filter is also a good option.
If you are really allergic, a vacuum cleaner with a dust bag can also be useful to empty the vacuum cleaner without any dust plumes escaping.
How often should I vacuum if I have allergies?
If you have allergies, it is recommended that you vacuum your home at least twice a week, more if you wear shoes indoors or have pets and carpeted floors. Regular vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum helps control allergens so you can breathe more freely in your home. It can also help to add an air purifier to your space to catch airborne dust before it settles on your floors, too.
Proper vacuuming can help reduce the impact of allergens, ultimately alleviating the allergy symptoms you experience in your own home.
While a good vacuum cleaner won’t cure your allergies, it’s definitely the best place to start for a comfortable home experience.