Cleaning House

Let's face it: Cleaning house isn't fun. At least not for the majority of people. It would be so nice to be able to wave a magic wand or snap our fingers and have the house spotlessly clean. If only that were a reality. For most of us, the house won't clean itself.

Cleaning the home with asthma

Asthmatics have a challenge when it comes to cleaning. Cleaning can trigger asthma to act up based on so many different variables. Harsh cleaning products can instantly set off one's asthma, as well as other environmental factors that are inside your home.

Below I'll list some helpful tips for cleaning:

Adequate ventilation

Before you start cleaning any area of your home, you will want to make sure there is adequate ventilation. Open windows (if possible) to help with any fumes that might occur while using cleaning products. If you have a fan on, make sure it is pointed out a window, so the air is not blowing around inside but only essentially sucking the air out. Once you are done cleaning a particular room, leave for a while to let it air out.

Floors

Cleaning floors can be problematic for people with asthma. Whether it is vacuuming carpet or sweeping bare floors, if you're not careful, your asthma can act up. Wear a mask over your mouth and nose when sweeping or vacuuming (as well as dusting various areas in your home.)

Choose a vacuum that has an excellent HEPA filter. This will help prevent dust and other things from escaping the vacuum itself. You might consider using a wet mop instead of sweeping to avoid more dust and debris being kicked up.

Cleaning products

There is a multitude of different cleaning products, and it can be daunting to figure out which ones to use. For me, anything with bleach in it is an instant asthma trigger. I try to find all-natural products that are odorless or at least with the least amount of smell as possible.

It is important to read labels on the products to check for any ingredients that you know will make your asthma act up. You might consider trying an all-natural approach and clean with vinegar and/or baking soda. These are very effective cleaning solutions.

Bedding

If you have dust mite allergies especially, take some allergy proofing steeps to help prevent allergic asthma symptoms. Encase your mattress in a dust mite proof cover. Do the same for your pillows and box springs. It is recommended to wash your bedding once a week in hot water.

Cleaning slowly with asthma

It is not a race. No need to overwhelm yourself and try to clean the entire house at once. Focus on one area at a time and take it slow. Take breaks when needed. What I do is focus on one room or area a day. That way, I'm not overwhelmed, and I'm able to focus on one area and make sure it gets adequately cleaned. Don't be afraid to ask for help! No shame in asking family to help you out.

I would love to hear any cleaning tips and tricks for people with asthma that you have heard about or have helped you personally. Leave a comment below and let me know!