Vacuums and Allergies

Many people might look surprised if you offered them a vacuum to cure their allergies, but when you think about it, it's actually pretty logical. Vacuums regularly suck up dirt, debris, and other pollutants that we don’t want in our homes. You want to get rid of the problem, not just treat the symptoms. Therefore, investing in a high-quality vacuum is equally as important as using over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications (in the words of Benjamin Franklin, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure). Also, remember that the vacuums of today aren’t like their old counterparts. They are modernized, offering advanced technology that has made the process of cleaning your home of allergen pollutants more effective, longer-lasting, and far more improved.

Leave Your Allergies in the Dust

Allergy triggers vary from person to person and can change with the seasons or with your environmental factors. Some people develop new allergies, and a lucky few overcome existing allergies. But regardless of the exact pollutant you are allergic to, allergen triggers are found throughout our homes, and they collect rapidly from day to day. This is why vacuuming is a crucial part of controlling your allergy symptoms. With the right tools, you can win the battle and keep your home allergen-free.

The Profile of an Allergy Vacuum

Allergy-sufferers who are looking for the ideal vacuum need to consider the following:

HEPA Filters: A vacuum with HEPA technology will capture both large and small particles, collecting 99.97% of pollutants 0.3 microns and larger. Most allergen triggers are minuscule, such as pollen and dust mites, and it is crucial to have a filtration system that can capture and hold these elements.
Airtight Design: It isn’t enough to have a system with HEPA filtration. You must also have a system with an airtight design. This is of the utmost importance to allergy-sufferers because without an airtight design, the pollutants will often be re-released into your environment through holes or seaming in the design of the unit and through the exhaust.
Bags: A vacuum with a collection bag is ideal because it traps the debris and pollutants permanently. It serves as the first line of filtration, and it can be thrown away easily, so there’s no mess and no risk of exposure to the pollutants. Bags should be replaced regularly and not allowed to overflow.

What to Vacuum

There are many areas in your home that a high-quality vacuum can help to address in your allergy-cleaning routine.

Carpets/Rugs: Carpets and rugs are not ideal if you have severe allergies. However, they can be dealt with using a vacuum. Make sure you choose a system that has a beater brush, which will thread through the fibers and clean the area more thoroughly.

Hard Floors: Vacuums are excellent for hard floors as well. Allergy-sufferers usually prefer hardwoods, linoleum, or tile flooring because they offer less ability to trap pollutants. These floors need to be well-maintained, as pollutants can settle on these hard surfaces very easily and be kicked up through walking, sweeping, or pets.

Furniture/Drapes: If you have upholstered furniture or drapes, your vacuum can help to keep these items allergy-free as well. You will need to choose a vacuum with suitable attachments or one that has adjustable settings that will not overpower your fabric. These items should not be neglected because they absorb many pollutants and are rarely deep-cleaned. You should consider vacuuming your mattress as well if you do not use allergy bedding. A vacuum will suction up all those pesky dust mite allergens as well.
Pets: It is important to vacuum behind your furry friends. Pet dander and hair are big issues for allergy-sufferers, so the less left lying around the better. It is best to avoid having pets on the furniture and bed, but if that isn’t possible, vacuum regularly to avoid dander build-up.
Wet Areas: If you find yourself with water-soaked areas, such as carpets, you need to address this problem quickly as it poses a serious threat to allergy-sufferers. Wet areas are breeding grounds for mildew, mold, and other bacteria. Having a wet/dry vacuum is an excellent resource that ensures you are prepared to handle any allergy situation that arises.

Best Units on the Market

Sylvane.com offers some of the best vacuums available to combat allergies. You can feel confident in your choice because these units are backed by advanced research and testing to ensure that they produce only the highest results. These units feature the latest technology, are industrial strength, have convenient features, and are reliable. Many of the brands Sylvane.com carries are the same brands renowned for their ability to remove dangerous chemicals like anthrax and asbestos. Others were the first choice of the U.S. government to begin the post-911 toxic cleanup.

Still Got Questions?

For more information on specific products and ways to improve your indoor environment, review our extensive product listings and other educational materials. Not sure what's best for you? We can take the guess work out of decision-making. Contact our product experts toll free at 1 (800) 934-9194 for a detailed consultation. Our goal is to make your indoor environment healthy and comfortable.

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