Household allergies: the air quality in question

Healthy air at home: less risk of allergies for babies

We all know the allergies linked to pollens at the onset of spring, but we know much less about allergies linked to poor indoor air quality. How to prevent them to protect Baby? We guide you.

In the street, you systematically flee exhaust pipes and cigarette smoke to preserve Baby’s small lungs. And you are right ! However, do not believe that at home, your little angel is totally protected. The air he breathes in the living room, in his bedroom … may contain substances called allergens, potentially responsible for allergic reactions.

Declare war on dust mites

Among the most common allergens in homes, we find at the top of the list mites. These microscopic little beasts are the cause of 75% of respiratory allergies. They love to nestle in bedding, sofas, rugs, carpets, but also your little one’s stuffed animals!

First reflexes to get rid of it: ventilate your interior to avoid too much humidity in the air and do not overheat your house. In the baby’s room, 18 ° to 19 ° is sufficient. If your child is allergic to dust mites, also adopt dust mite covers for bedding, washable synthetic pillows and duvets (moreover, washing is recommended every 4 to 6 months). And don’t forget the fluff: let them spend one night in the freezer, then wash them at 30 ° (washing at 60 ° could damage them).

Mold, animal hair, cockroaches and cockroaches … other undesirable

Also beware of mold present in homes. They love humid environments (kitchen, bathroom…), but can also hide behind furniture, under parquet, wallpaper, on walls, indoor plants… These microscopic fungi produce spores which spread in the air and can trigger allergic symptoms. Hence the importance, again, of ventilate well his home and think about disinfect contaminated surfaces with bleach.

Also hunt for animal hair (did you know that cat hair allergy is the most common?), cockroaches and cockroaches. They too are among the allergens responsible for respiratory allergies and contact allergies. the latex, present in household gloves, pacifiers… can also be the cause of allergies. Think about it!

Beware of pollutants

La tobacco smokeBut also paints, glues, household products, aerosols, interior fragrances, scented candles… which emit COV (volatile organic compounds), are all pollutants to be avoided. They contribute to the occurrence of allergies by increasing our sensitivity to allergens. Pregnant women and new mothers must be particularly vigilant because these pollutants can cross the placental barrier, but also pass into breast milk.

Do you suspect an allergy in Baby?

If there is the slightest doubt of an allergy, no time to waste: we consult! The earlier the diagnosis, the greater the chances of avoiding a worsening of the disease through appropriate management.

And to limit the risk of allergy linked to poor air quality, three simple steps to remember: aerate, ventilate and clean ! You will now take a whole new look at cleaning chores …