Mold, mildew, and pollen are often blamed for seasonal allergies, but pests are also common triggers for allergic reactions and asthma symptoms. From mild sniffles to scratchy throats and watery eyes, unwanted visitors in your home may be to blame if you have indoor allergies or asthma.
Thankfully, you don’t have to accept a home full of pests—or a nose full of congestion. Learn how pests can cause allergic reactions and what you can do to stop them with seasonal pest control tips from Clegg’s Pest Control in North Carolina.
How Are Pests Linked to Allergies?
Pests cause many health issues, but among the most common symptoms these unwanted intruders cause are allergies. Their droppings, saliva, and even body parts like shed exoskeletons contain proteins that trigger allergies. The more pests you have in your home, the worse your allergic reactions and asthma symptoms will be.
Can Cockroaches Cause Allergies?
Regarding pests that trigger allergic reactions, cockroaches are among the most notorious offenders. They often trigger sneezing, wheezing, and coughing as their discarded body parts and wings can worsen air quality and produce more filth in your home. Be on the lookout for roaches during the early stages of fall as they try to escape the chilly weather.
Can Mice Cause Allergies?
Rodents, such as mice, can make your allergies flare up as they leave droppings and discarded hairs as they sneak around, polluting your home’s air quality. Pay extra attention to any signs of mice or rats invading your space during the winter.
Seasonal Pest Control Tips To Allergy-Proof Your House
It’s easy to spot mice or cockroaches invading your home, but another allergy-triggering pest may be hiding in plain sight: dust mites. These tiny insect-like pests are invisible to the naked eye, and they feed on dead skin from people and pets, all while worsening allergy and asthma symptoms.
Tiny allergy-triggering pests like dust mites and larger ones like rodents may seem inevitable—fortunately, our seasonal pest control tips and tricks can help keep these invaders at bay.
Freshen Your Bedroom
The best place to begin your pest-proofing process is the room where you begin your day. There are several practical ways to help keep your bedroom clean and allergy-free, such as:
- Wash sheets regularly
- Check box springs
- Use washable and reusable curtains
- Close windows and doors
- Rely on your air conditioning
- Keep pets out of the bedroom
Keep an Eye on Your Living Room
After you emerge from your bedroom in the morning, you’ll want to be greeted by a clean living space free of pests and allergens. Opt for hardwood floors instead of carpeting, as it’s harder for material to stick on the more firm surfaces. Purchase upholstered furniture to avoid further contact with the floor and opportunities for pests to roam about.
Clean up the Kitchen
When cooking a good meal for you and your loved ones, you don’t want to randomly go into a coughing or sneezing fit from allergens via pests. To best shield your kitchen from hungry pests, wash your dishes, sweep floors, and clean cabinets and countertops frequently.
These procedures will help keep excess moisture, which attracts several common pests, such as cockroaches, to a minimum.
Air out the Bathroom
Proper ventilation is the key to pest-proofing your bathroom. To achieve this, install an exhaust fan for the best ventilation and air quality. In addition to a proper fan, it’s wise to frequently clean your shower, tub, sink, and toilet with the proper cleaning products.
Check for Cracks and Holes in the Basement
Don’t limit yourself to protecting your home’s above-ground spaces from pests. Give your basement the shield it needs with frequent cleaning and proper ventilation. If you find any cracks or openings, use caulk or sealant immediately.
Routinely Inspect Your Entire House
Frequent secondary pass-throughs and cleanings are recommended to prevent pests and allergens from entering the house. We recommend thorough cleanings at least weekly and setting up traps where pests are likely to enter but out of the reach of pets and children. The temperature inside your house should be consistently between 68° F and 72° F.
How To Test Air Quality in Your Home
Maintaining good air quality to prevent allergens from sneaking about may require additional tools and equipment. Invest in a quality indoor air monitor that can detect a variety of pollutants. If you’re wondering if there are any risks of molding in your home, test for mold using a designated kit.
Are you still struggling against pests and allergies in your home? Don’t hesitate to contact professional pest control services for help eliminating pesky pests in your home.
Request Pest Control in North Carolina From Clegg’s Pest Control
When you need help with seasonal allergies triggered by pests, count on Clegg’s Pest Control for residential pest control in your North Carolina home. From the heat of the summer to the frigid winter months, our technicians will come to your home and apply preventive treatments for your peace of mind. Contact our team or find your nearest service branch to schedule your free inspection today!