Living with a pet can be challenging when someone in your household is allergic to pets. While about 7 out of 10 households in the United States have a pet, many people are allergic to animals, especially those with fur, like cats and dogs. In fact, pet allergies affect up to 20% of the world's population.

Surprisingly, it's not the pet's hair or fur that triggers an allergic reaction, but rather the protein in their dander, saliva, and urine. This protein can also collect other allergens like dust mites, mold, and pollen. When these proteins come in contact with your airways, eyes, nose, mouth, or skin, they can cause allergy symptoms. Cat dander is incredibly lightweight, so it easily goes airborne and can linger in the environment for months after the cat has left. 

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the amount of allergens in your home and minimize the risk of allergy symptoms. Here are six practical tips for reducing pet allergens inside your home:

1. Groom to Remove Allergens from Your Pet's Fur 

Regularly grooming your pets is a simple and effective way to minimize pet allergens in your home. By brushing and bathing your pets, you can remove loose hair and dander from their fur, which can help reduce the number of allergens in the air. Recent studies have shown that bathing is particularly effective in reducing airborne dander. 

To make the grooming process even more effective, consider using The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Pet Shampoo, which cleans and conditions your pet's coat and helps eliminate dander and dust mite allergens. With regular grooming and the right products, you and your pet can enjoy a healthier, more comfortable living environment. 

Related: The Ecology Works Guide for Pets and Owners with Allergies 

2. Use a High-Quality Air Purifier

Investing in a high-quality air purifier can make a significant difference in reducing allergens inside your home. Look for a model that uses a HEPA filter, which can capture tiny particles like pet dander. Place the air purifier in the room where you spend the most time, such as your bedroom or living room. Keep in mind that air purifiers work best when the doors and windows are closed, so it's essential to use them consistently to see results. 

3. Vacuum and Dust Regularly

Pet hair and dander tend to accumulate on various surfaces in the home, including furniture, carpets, and upholstery. To minimize the spread of these allergens, it's important to vacuum and dust regularly. Opt for a vacuum with a HEPA filter and vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery at least once a week. For dusting, use a damp cloth on surfaces such as shelves, tables, and countertops to avoid spreading allergens into the air. If you're sensitive to allergens, wearing a dust mask while cleaning is recommended.

To tackle dust on hard surfaces, use a microfiber cloth dampened with The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Solution. For cleaning fabric furniture and carpets, use a vacuum with a HEPA filter once a week. After vacuuming, use The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Solution on upholstered furniture, bedding, rugs, pillows, pet beds, and other soft surfaces to neutralize allergens on contact. 

4. Wash Pet Bedding and Toys

Just like your own bedding and clothing, your pet's bedding and toys can harbor allergens like pet dander and dust mites. Make sure to wash your pet's bedding and toys regularly to keep them clean and allergen-free. 

Use a pet-friendly laundry detergent to wash bedding and toys to eliminate allergens and odors. Make sure to dry everything completely before returning it to your pet's sleeping area. 

5. Keep Pets Out of the Bedroom

We understand the struggle of wanting to snuggle with your pets at night! But the fact remains that allergen levels will always be higher wherever pets are physically present. If you suffer from severe allergies, consider creating a pet-free zone in your home. This can be a specific room or area where your pet is not allowed, such as your bedroom or home office. This can help reduce the amount of allergens in the air and give you a space to retreat when you need a break from your symptoms. 

Remember that pet allergens can still accumulate even if pets aren’t allowed in certain rooms. Be sure to vacuum regularly and treat surfaces with The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Solution.  

6. Use The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen Products

Don't suffer through pet allergies! Our Anti-Allergen products can help you build a healthier home environment for you and your furry friend. The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen formulas are specifically designed to neutralize common environmental allergens like cat dander, dog dander, and dust mites on contact, making them a great addition to your allergy prevention arsenal.

Are You Struggling with Pet allergies? Our Anti-Allergen Products Can Help You Create An Allergy-Friendly Home Environment

Managing pet allergies doesn't have to mean giving up your beloved furry companion. By using a combination of these practical strategies, you can reduce allergens in your home and create a comfortable living environment for everyone. The Ecology Works Anti-Allergen products are formulated with people, pets, and the planet in mind. 

The Ecology Works specializes in household allergy relief products. Our trusted formulas have helped people and pets for nearly 30 years. Have questions about which allergen-reducing products are best for your home? Contact us today to talk about allergen-busting, or check out our Instagram for everyday tips on reducing or preventing allergies for the long term.