If you’re somebody who struggles with allergies, you don’t need us to tell you that the summer weather can play haywire with your system. In the UK, approximately one in four people suffer from some form of allergy at some point in their lives. What’s more, there’s no clear reason why some people develop allergies while others, even in the same family, do not.
Allergy triggers, or “allergens,” include pollen, animal hair, mould, and dust, as well as certain foods and topical irritants like stings or poison ivy. When exposed to an allergen, the body releases chemicals, including histamine, which cause symptoms such as itchiness, swelling, or a runny nose. In severe cases, allergens can trigger serious reactions like swelling, shock, or even anaphylactic shock.
In this blog, we’ll explore how you can reduce allergies in your home and why shutters are a surprisingly effective window dressing for allergy sufferers, especially during the peak summer allergy season.
Practical Ways to Reduce Allergies
As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Of course, food allergies are somewhat easier to manage. Whether it’s by simply reading ingredient lists on packages or being extra careful with your restaurant choices, it’s manageable. However, dealing with airborne allergens like dust or pollen can be much more challenging.
Nature has designed pollen to be incredibly sticky, adhering to animals, insects, clothes, carpets, and curtains. Under a microscope, pollen’s Velcro-like surface is unmistakable. Similarly, animal hair is notoriously sticky, leading companies like Dyson and Miele to create special, extra-powerful vacuum cleaners to handle it.
To create the best environment for airborne allergy sufferers, consider the following tips:
- Flooring: Opt for mop-friendly tiled or wooden floors instead of carpets, which can trap dust and pollen.
- Furnishings: Choose leather or vinyl soft furnishings rather than fabric, as dust and pollen can easily stick to fabric surfaces.
- Rugs: Avoid rugs, or if necessary, choose ones that can be easily washed or cleaned regularly.
- Window Treatments: Use wooden window shutters, which are easier to keep dust-free with a damp cloth, instead of fabric curtains.
By making these changes, you’ll significantly reduce allergen levels in your home, creating a more comfortable living space. For more help, advice, and tips, visit the Allergy UK website.
Now, let’s delve into why shutters are an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, especially during the peak summer allergy season.
Why Shutters are Ideal for Allergy Sufferers
One of the benefits of shutters that are not commonly talked about is how great they are for allergy sufferers, especially during peak allergy season in the summer.
1. Easy to Clean
One of the main benefits of shutters is how easy they are to clean. Unlike curtains, which can trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, shutters have smooth, hard surfaces that can be easily wiped down with a damp cloth. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of allergens, helping to maintain a healthier indoor environment.
2. Dust-Free
Shutters help in creating a dust-free environment. Since they don’t have fabric that attracts and holds dust particles, they reduce the overall amount of dust in your home. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from dust mite allergies.
3. Better Air Quality
By keeping your shutters closed during high pollen seasons, you can significantly reduce the amount of pollen entering your home. Their movable slats can be adjusted to allow fresh air in while keeping allergens out, improving indoor air quality.
4. Longevity
Shutters are a durable and long-lasting option. Unlike fabric blinds or curtains that need replacing due to wear and tear, shutters keep their quality over time, providing a long-term solution for allergy sufferers.
5. Made For You
Shutters are custom-made to fit any window shape or size, ensuring a perfect fit every time. The precise fit of shutters minimises gaps where dust and pollen can enter, providing an added layer of protection.
By going with shutters, you’re not only choosing a stylish and timeless window treatment but also making a conscious decision to create a healthier living space.
To see about getting your own, request a free in-home survey with one of our shutter specialists today.
For an idea on price, check out our quick quote calculator.
