Pet dander consists of tiny flakes of skin, saliva and urine proteins that become airborne and settle just about everywhere. For someone with allergies, that means itchy eyes, sneezing and a runny nose.
While pet dander can feel challenging to get rid of, it’s not impossible. Let’s take a look at where pet dander hides, how to clean it thoroughly and when to see an allergy specialist.
Where Pet Dander Hides
Pet dander comes from animals with fur or feathers, including but not limited to dogs, cats, guinea pigs and birds. A few places dander might be hiding in your home include:
- Carpets and rugs
- Upholstered furniture
- Curtains and blinds
- Bedding
- Air ducts and HVAC filters
- Stuffed animals
How To Clean Pet Dander Thoroughly
Cleaning consistently is the key to keeping a dander-free home. Take the following steps to rid your house of the allergen:
- Clean the floors. Vacuum every few days with a HEPA-filtered vacuum. Mop all hardwood at least once a week.
- Wash bedding weekly. Wash both your bedding and your pet’s bedding once a week, but do them separately, as washing them together can leave extra hair and dander on your sheets.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down surfaces. Dry dusting can spread allergens around. Take a wet cloth and wipe down counters, bookshelves, coffee tables and desks weekly.
- Replace air filters regularly. Choose high-efficiency filters and swap them out every one to two months.
- Limit pet access. It’s hard to say no to our furry friends, but keeping them off upholstered furniture and bedding is crucial in minimizing allergen exposure. Try grabbing a new bed from Whole Dog Market to encourage them to stay off your furniture.
When to See an Allergy Specialist
Sometimes, even the best cleaning routine isn’t enough. If allergy symptoms persist despite cleaning efforts, talk to an expert. An allergy specialist can identify your triggers and help build a personalized allergy management plan. This might include medication, immunotherapy (allergy shots) or practical avoidance strategies.
Contact ENT of Georgia North today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.