How to Keep Animal Dander Low

Sneezing, sniffling and shortness of breath are sure signs of pet allergies, but the source of your symptoms is pet dander rather than the animal's fur. Proteins found in the pet dander stick to the fur during your pet's self-grooming and causes an allergic reaction when inhaled. Your body's immune system reacts to the pet dander's protein by attempting to fight the foreign substance, which results in swollen membranes, watery eyes and constant sneezing. Cutting down on animal dander through frequent house cleaning reduces symptoms, and eliminates the need to permanently ban your pet from your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Face mask
  • Vacuum cleaner
  • Steam cleaner
  • Air purifier
  • Pet brush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Wear a face mask when cleaning becauses pet dander floats in the air when it is moved during the cleaning process. Vacuum your floors and carpeting at least twice a week to reduce the amount of pet dander that settles onto the floor. Steam clean your carpets weekly to remove deeply embedded dander.

    • 2

      Remove carpeting because pet dander collects in the fibers of the carpet and worsens allergy symptoms.

    • 3

      Wipe down walls with a damp, lint-free cleaning cloth. Wipe up pet hair that tends to collect along the woodwork of the walls, and shake out dirty cleaning cloths outside to prevent spreading the dander into the air. Remove upholstered furniture from sleeping areas because they are difficult to clean and worsen allergy symptoms.

    • 4

      Keep your pets outside for at least two months to cut down on your home's overall amount of pet dander. During those two months frequent cleaning is recommended to reduce dander levels. Brush your pet outside to prevent spreading the dander through the air. Pick out clumps of fur from the brush, and leave the brush outside if possible.

    • 5

      Wash or throw out your pet's bed or favorite bedding because it is covered with pet dander and is difficult to remove all traces of dander. Wash your bedding and any clothing in the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric.

    • 6

      Use an air purifier to trap floating pet hair in the purifier's filter. The air purifier will only remove floating hair from your home, and requires monthly filter replacement to maintain its performance.