16th – 22nd of November is Indoor Allergy Week. With around 40% of children now suffering from allergies such as asthma and eczema, it’s helpful to understand what triggers reactions such as itchy eyes, runny nose, skin rashes, sneezing, snoring and wheezing at this time of year.
While many of us think of summer as allergy season, the humid conditions created by turning up the central heating in our double glazed homes in winter provides an ideal environment for mould and dust mites to breed and thrive. The average bed contains around 2 million dust mites while 10% of the weight of a 6-year old pillow can consist of mould, mildew, dust mites and their waste, which can trigger allergies.
To reduce these winter nasties, regular vacuuming of carpets, curtains and furniture using a vacuum cleaner with HEPA (High Efficient Particle Arrester) filtration is recommended. All Vax vacuum cleaners now feature HEPA filters as standard, so whichever model you choose you can be assured it’s helping to reduce the allergens in your house.
An average carpet harbours millions of dust mites and a neglected carpet can contain up to four times its own weight in dirt, mould, dust mites and their waste. Whilst dry vacuuming removes the surface layer of dirt from carpets, washing is much more effective at removing embedded dirt, dust mites and other allergens hidden deep within carpet pile.
Specialist carpet cleaning solutions are formulated to work deep into carpets, lifting dust, dirt and stains, and leaving your carpet smelling fresh and clean. Arming your home with a vacuum cleaner and carpet washer is a great way to start winning the battle against winter allergies.
Vax has some fantastic deals on carpet washers if you buy through its online shop too, so don’t miss out!