Cooper Many dubious remedies exist, but immunotherapy and careful cleaning to remove allergens and immunotherapy may be the best options. (Click link to read.)
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/06/health/06patient.html
6 months ago - Comment
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Emily By http://online.wsj.com/search/search_center.html?KEYWORDS=LAURA+JOHANNES&ARTICLESEARCHQUERY_PARSER=bylineAND Buckwheat husks are crunchy and hard—not the first thing that comes to mind as ideal pillow stuffing. But makers of buckwheat-filled pillows say the hulls resist dust mites and help reduce aches and pains by conforming perfectly to your body contours. Clinicians say the pillows seem to aid in keeping the spine aligned, but two published scientific studies suggest the dust-mite claims should be taken with a grain of salt.***http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704342404574576392337405518.html
9 months ago - Comment
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Cooper
We had the incredible opportunity to ask noted allergist, http://www.aller-ease.com/dr.-bassett a series of questions about allergies. The Questions and Answers are below:Q: I was stung by a
bee at girl scout camp at the age of 10. I had a horrible reaction. My foot
swelled up, my breathing became labored and I spent several days in the
hospital being monitored. Ever since then, I have had a prescription for an
epi-pen in case I get stung by a bee again. It has been 27 years since that bee
sting without incident. Of course I run screaming and flailing like a mad woman
any time a bee even comes near me. My epi-pen expired a few years and I have
not seen a doctor to renew the prescription. Is it possible to have outgrown
this allergy? Should I worry about it? What should I do?
People with insect allergy type reactons are actually on the
rise in the US. The most important
first step is to go and see an experienced allergist for allergy testing and
evaluation of this condition, especially if you are unsure of a future reaction. Treatments are available to reduce the
risk of any future sting reactions.
If you are at risk of stinging insect anaphylaxis (a life threatening
allergic reaction), it is essential to have your doctor prescribe and review
the circumstances when an epinephrine auto injector (i.e. Epi-pen, Twin-Ject) would
be needed in case of a stinging insect allergy reaction. Wearing a medical identification
bracelet indicating this potentially life-threatening allergy is also often
recommended. Remember to check the
label on this device for important instructions as well as the expiration date.
Q: My son has been
having what I call sneezing jags. He will sneeze 8-10 times in a row and has
been doing this several times a day for the past week. While it seems a little
strange, is it really something that I should worry about?
Seasonal and indoor allergies may feature repetitive, even
“machine-gun” type sneezing attacks, especially during a “high-pollen day” (check
out http://www.aaaai.org/nab for a local pollen
count). Sneezing can be helpful in
pushing out airway irritants such as smoke, pollens, etc. There are many over the counter and
prescription allergy medications to reduce sneezing, runny nose and congested
nasal passages. The first step is
to find out if he/she actually has allergies so proper treatment can be given
for this common condition.
Hint: If you and your spouse have allergies the risk of seeing
allergies in your children can go up by 50-75% or more.
Q: Several years ago
I was prescribed some eye drops for allergic rhinitis. I remember the doctor
saying something about using them daily but I don't have allergies daily. They
kind of come and go (in an annoying sort of way). Are the eye drops something
that is more effective with daily use or can I continue on an as-needed basis?
First, eyelid hygiene can be very helpful if you have eye
irritation and/or allergies. Your
eye care professional can prescribe over the counter eyelid cleaning wipes
and/or tear-free shampoo for relief of unwanted symptoms. Prescription allergy eye drops
generally contain antihistamines for symptomatic relief of itchiness, excessive
tearing and watery eyes. It all
depends on whether you have symptoms occasionally or on a more persistent basis
(2 or more days a week) whether you consider daily “as needed” care vs. long term “daily” treatment.
Check with your family ophthalmologist or optometrist for more specific
suggestions.
Q: I think that I
have become allergic to my contacts. I have been wearing them for 10 years
without any problems. Then earlier this year, I cannot put them in my eyes
without itching, burning, excessive eye watering. Seriously, is this possible?
I did not switch contacts, solutions, place of residence, didn't even have a
birthday. How could this happen?
Many contact lens wearers can develop a variety of “wear
issues” with them. This is
particularly common during the allergy season when pollen levels may cause eye
allergy symptoms and make wearing the lenses uncomfortable. Some individuals can also develop irritation to various eye-care
solutions and drugs used in maintaining contact lenses (may occur even if you
have been using the same products and solutions for a while). Speak with your prescribing eye-care
professional about the right strategy for you.
Q: One of the tips
submitted in the Flip for Fall campaign
suggested that allergy sufferers should wash their sinuses with a salt-water
solution to get rid of pollen and whatever else might be bothering them. Does
this practice make a difference?
If in fact you have nasal allegies and/or sinus problems,
many individuals can benefit from gentle nasal saline (salt water) sprays. Consider a visit to an ear-nose-throat
specialist or allergist for a more detailed exam to find the cause of your
symptom. You will then be in a better position to determine if you are a candidate
for sinus irrigation.
Q: When I was having
my air ducts serviced the salesman was trying to sell me a $450 air purifier
for my bedroom to help with our allergies. He also swore that it would stop my
husband from snoring too. Do you think that air purifiers are beneficial or
just a whole lotta hoopla? If you do think so, do you recommend any brand in
particular?
HEPA air filters can be beneficial in the right
setting. In particular many
patients with pet allergies (about 20-25% of the allergic population) may obtain
some relief with the use of a properly sized HEPA filter, for either a room
model or a central ventilation system.
Check out http://www.consumerreports.org/
for further information on air purifiers.
Q: My 6 yr old has
battled eczema since she was tiny, with the bends of her elbows and knees being
the worst spots. We saw an allergist for several months, but besides telling us
she was allergic to eggs, it didn't do much good. Taking eggs out of her diet
makes no difference, and the eczema seems to come and go at will. She is now
seeing a dermatologist and they have her on steroid cream... again. My question
is: Are there things we can do at home to reduce her need for the cream? We do
the normal things like bathing with only approved soaps, doing laundry with
only free & clear detergents, coating her with Vaseline twice a day during
the colder months to keep her moist, etc. Is there any hope for a less
cumbersome routine for her skin, or is this something that we will have to deal
with?
Q: My daughter has
horrible sensitivities to soaps, detergents, lotions and many fabrics. We wash
her clothing and bedding separately and in free/clear laundry soaps. She uses
only organic soaps but no lotions can be put on her skin or she instantly
breaks out. We've tried everything from organic to baby lotions and even some
prescription lotion to no avail. Any suggestions?
These two questions are a lot alike, so I’ll answer them
together. There are many different approaches to the treatment of eczema,
officially, atopic dermatitis. It sounds like you’re taking the right steps
with your six-year old. A
comprehensive skin management program for eczema has at its core the sufficient
use of skin moisturizers. Additionally,
fragrance-free creams, detergents can be helpful for sensitive
individuals. In some cases where
food allergies are present an elimination diet would also be recommended by a
family allergist in order to reduce possible allergic triggers of the eczema. If you or a family member has sensitive
skin as well as an apparent reaction to the specific ingredients in various
personal skin care products, a simple and diagnostic skin allergy patch test
can be performed to learn if you are “sensitive” to a product so an alternative
one can be found. Learn more about
childhood eczema at http://www.allergyandasthmarelief.org/ .
Q: My 8 year old
daughter has asthma and we know she is allergic to mold, dust, and pet dander.
Aside from bothering her asthma at times, she also gets very itchy flare-ups in
the folds of her arms and behind the knees. We've found when it is bad; she
itches these spots until they are completely raw while she sleeps. We've put Aller-Ease
covers on her mattress and pillows. I was wondering if you had any further
suggestions in regards to things like what fabric sheets and blankets are best?
Should she bathe at night or in the morning? How often should she bathe? Is there
a specific brand of lotion you'd suggest?
See an allergist and learn if your child has indoor
allergies that will affect her. Washable
blankets that can be washed in hot water are helpful in reducing the number of
hungry house dust mites living in your bedding. Allergy protective bedding for pillows, mattresses and box
springs are at the heart of an allergen reduction program in the bedroom,
especially if your child has indoor allergies/asthma.
The answers
stated here are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care,
advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers
to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone.
11 months ago - Comment
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JDaniel4smom I like to take down the blinds and clean them well.
Thanks to PPM for sending me to this site.11 months ago - Comment
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Brandie Woo-hoo!!! Congrats!!!! =)
11 months ago
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Brandie Awesome! Congratulations!
11 months ago
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RobynsWorld This is my latest post for Flip For Fall
http://robynsonlineworld.blogspot.com/2009/09/ultimate-flip-for-fall-checklist-new.html11 months ago - Comment
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Cooper Wow, this is such a fantastic project, everyone. The tips are wonderful and so creative, thoughtful and inspiring. Thank you all so much!Great news! http://www.aller-ease.com/ and highly regarded allergist http://www.nyc-allergist.com/ have offered to answer some of our allergy and allergen related questions.Post an allergy/allergen-related question in the comment section below between now and Friday (9/25) and within the next week your questions will be addressed. Thanks!
12 months ago - Comment
View all 9 comments
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StacieinAtlanta My son has been having what I call sneezing jags. He will sneeze 8-10 times in a row and has been doing this several times a day for the past week.
While it seems a little strange, is it really something that I should worry about?11 months ago
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StacieinAtlanta I was stung by a bee at girl scout camp at the age of 10. I had a horrible reaction. My foot swelled up, my breathing became labored and I spent several days in the hospital being monitored. Ever since then, I have had a prescription for an epi-pen in case I get stung by a bee again. It has been 27 years since that bee sting without incident. Of course I run screaming and flailing like a mad woman any time a bee even comes near me. My epi-pen expired a few years and I have not seen a doctor to renew the prescription. Is it possible to have outgrown this allergy? Should I worry about it? What should I do?
11 months ago
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Brandie SO many great tips here!! Thanks to everyone who is sharing them - I'm getting lots of great ideas to do some great fall cleaning around the house! =) Okay, really, I'm getting great ideas to give hubby when we are gone on vacation! LOL! He can do it much faster when the kids are out of the house than I can with them hahaha!
12 months ago - Comment
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Kimberly@Prett Last few tips from PPM readers
JeansandTs said... 180 This is the time of year that I service my Matresses all over the house. First, I vacuum both sides of Matress and top of boxspring. Then, I use Lysol Spray and I spray the matress until it is damp. I leave the matress off the bed until it is completely dry(about an hour.) Then I flip it over put a new matress cover on it. I do this to each matress set in the house every spring and fall.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Anonymous said... 181 one thing that really helps is when dusting, i use a wet rag to attract the dust so it doesn't blow around. keeping the windows a crack open ventilates rooms as well.
happy housecleaning!
avkaurcomm@yahoo.in
Monday, September 21, 2009
Anonymous said... 182 one thing that really helps is when dusting, i use a wet rag to attract the dust so it doesn't blow around. keeping the windows a crack open ventilates rooms as well.
happy housecleaning!
avkaurcomm@yahoo.in
12 months ago - Comment
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MyFourMonkeys More tips from MFM readers:
chrissyb said...
we vaccum the house every week.
chrissyb said...
we dust an polish our household items every week.
chrissyb said...
We wash all the bed sheets once a week.
chrissyb said...
we use pillow pad on all our pillows.
chrissyb said...
we use a mattress pad on all our beds.
chrissyb said...
we use an air purifier in the family room.
chrissyb said...
We use an air purifier in the nursery.
chrissyb said...
we wash the curtain every three months.
chrissyb said...
we vaccum every mattress once a month.
chrissyb said...
Once a month we steam clean our carpets.
Holly B said...
We use an air purifier, it adds a nice noise to sleep to and it cleans the air!
VickieB said...
We've already started a deep cleaning whole house cleanup. One room, one closet at a time.
CC said...
I clean out the humidifier to get ready for my son's allergies!
CC said...
I wash all the comforters and pillows
CC said...
I buy a whole winter's supply of furnace filters
throuthehaze said...
I shampoo the carpets every couple months
throuthehaze said...
I use a handheld steamer to clean my blinds and ceiling fans
amyndavid said...
My husband like to clean all the walls with a little bleach and water. Keeps the walls clean and makes the house smell clean!
amyndavid said...
We take all the blinds off the windows and take them outside to spray them with the water hose and scrub with a brush.
VickieB said...
We love decorating for the seasons. One of the ways we keep our seasonal decorations safe and clean is to use totes. The Rubbermaid 21 gallon holiday totes and 22 gallon totes with the high lids are just the right size for most of our stuff (and stackable). We can just spray off the container to clean.
her5boys said...
We clean all of our vents at the start of the fall season!
her5boys said...
We do a fall cleaning of all of our ceiling fans, base boards and window sills to rid them of dust!
VickieB said...
Now is the time I'll take my Teddies that can be safely put in the dryer and run them on fluff to remove the dust
jsc123 said...
In the fall we do a cleaning that is very similar to spring cleaning on our home. That way when it is time to close the house up for winter there are less allergens,dust etc.
It truly helps all of our allergies throughout the winter months.
Janna @ Feed Your Pig said...
change your funerace filter with an allergy filter!
abby said...
We change our air filter. We always use the allergen one and think it works the best!
kk said...
We clean the window screens.
adrian said...
dusting is a great way to prepare the house for allergy season
heaventrees said...
Get a high quality furnace filter at the start of winter.
Liz said...
We have a weekly chore chart to keep the normal tasks up to date. We are also replacing all filters in the house and cleaning all of the windows. It's amazing how much pollen has accumulated!
12 months ago - Comment
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andTwinsMake5 A final batch of hints from the And Twins make 5! readers:
jennem said...We order new filters for our air purifiers, and run everything we can through the washer. We also bag up lots and lots for donations to the school's fall rummage sale--less stuff means less dust.
Sue E said...I dust with dryer sheets, the dust clings to them and repels future dust collection. Thanks!
Anonymous said...We wash the bes set at least once a month. The washer and dryer seem to filter and remove any unwanted dust, pollen, dander or fur
CC said...In the fall we take out all our smelly candles. Yum! We clean out the humidifier to get ready for the dry winter air. We buy filters for the furnace. Enough to last the whole winter through.
Linda said...We use an air purifier in the bedrooms.
jsc123 said...During the fall and just before it is time to close the house back up we do a full house clean. It for us is much like spring cleaning and tends to help with all of our allergies.
doodlegirl said...we wash our bedding every week to two weeks in hot water
Aisling said...I'm the one with allergies, so we've replaced all carpeting with wood flooring and use blinds on the windows instead of drapes. We try to do a heavy cleaning in fall, including vacuuming all the matresses and laundering (or replacing) pillows.
Molly K said...I vacumn my blinds every week when I vacumn the floor. It really helps to keep the build up of dust down.
Anonymous said...We don't allow the animals on the bed. We found that has made HUGE difference. Thie dander is just too much
Holly B said...Always use an air purifier, not only is the sound relaxing to sleep to, it cleans the air!
VickieB said...Like the comment above, we are in the process of major cleaning. I have a bunch of stuffed bears, so I ususally run them through a fluff cycle of the dryer to help get the dust from them also.
My Beauty Bunny said...I use air purifiers and try to vacuum once a week since I have cats!
tlcfromtn said...Clean the screens and curtains on a regular basis.
Brooke said...I have two tips.. During this time we normally get the humidifiers out.. Plus, first thing you do is take shoes off at the door... This does two things.. keeps the house cleaner and reduces the dust and stuff on the carpets..
chromiumman said...we wash the drapes and the blinds on a regular basis
myrisaroo8404 said...allergy meds, bed and pillow covers, and a good nights rest will help with allergies
paula h said...We're replacing all of our blinds with shades. Blinds are too hard to keep clean.
lil.blessing said...We clean out the house and have a continuous garage sale as we get stuff out of the house!
chazvgo said...Make sure to clean ceiling fans often :)
intime said...use those plastic shrinky window covers. Saves $on heating
msjazzyfresh said...Claritin is a life saver at my house during the fall!
the fall is when we clean all the vents to get ready to turn on that heater!
Janet and Maya said...Eliminate sources of allergens, as much as possible. Avoid carpeting, washable throw rugs are much better!
JoAnn said...I have Asthma, cleaning is always a chore. We have issues with dust like everyone else. Wash all curtains and clean blinds.
AmyLynn said...We winterize our windows with that plastic sheeting that shrinks with a blow dryer. It can get cold in IL. We do a fall cleaning like spring cleaning to each room. We switch out our sheer curtains for heavier fabric ones. We put the comforter back on the bed. We change the batteries in our smoke and CO(2) detectors. We pack away our summer clothing and unpack our fall/winter clothing. We also change our furnace filter.
demmi said...change or clean your furnace filters con5459(at)gmail(dot)com
Sarah Z said...I change my candle scents for fall - they are more earthy and woods scented!
Pam said...Our family has a terrible time with allergies and to be honest it's an ongoing battle with us. We moved from a house with all hardwoods into one that is mostly carpeted. I regret doing that as I think it makes our allergies worse.
ktanjatk said...We clean all vents, dry clean all carpets and get rid of things that we don't use!
susan1215 said...I dust often to get rid of the dust.
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite my mother to come for a visit (motivation)
2. De-clutter, so that I can easily and quickly clean surfaces. Or trust my almost-four year old to do it, because there’s nothing to break.
3. Reward yourself with a new Jim Brickman cd, a spot of tea and a good book (motivation)
Can you tell I often need motivation?
Janet and Maya said...
Tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite your boss to come for a visit (motivation)
2. Thoroughly was all window treatments to eliminate a major source of dust.
3. Reward yourself with chocolate (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite a distant relative who might put you in their will to come for a visit (motivation)
2. Flip all the mattresses in the house, wash all bedding and make sure you have protection from Aller-Ease!
3. Reward yourself with a huge bouquet of fresh flowers, aahhhh-choooo! Okay, scratch that, chocolate covered strawberries and champagne. (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite your out of town, fussiest (in a good way!) sister-in-law to come for a visit (motivation)
2. Take everything out of the guest room, steam clean the carpets, replace only the essentials – de-clutter!
3. Reward yourself with a hug from your children (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite your favorite aunt to come for a visit (motivation)
2. Clean and/or replace all the filters in your house (air cleaners, furnace, vacuum, humidifier, dehumidifier, etc).
3. Reward yourself with a spa day (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite your husband’s old girlfriend to come for dinner (motivation)
2. Clean your house from top to bottom, just in case she finds an excuse to snoop in every room. Crank up the a/c in case things get heated, er, I mean to lower the humidity and slow down the growth of allergens. (It will also help de-frizz your hair)
3. Reward yourself with a new outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks. Self-awareness and confidence is everything. (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite the head of your church to come for dinner (motivation)
2. Learn to cook. Only kidding, if you can’t cook, skip this tip. Thoroughly wash in hot water, if possible all the linens in your home – not only bedding, but tablecloths, towels, kitchen towels, cloth placemats. Any cloth can harbor allergens.
3. Reward yourself with a manicure at your fave spa. (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Take pictures of every room in the house, to have for insurance purposes, then invite me over – they often call me Chef Sparky, to cook dinner for you. (motivation)
2. Thoroughly clean some of the rooms in your house that company usually doesn’t see (but your insurance agent may review the pics later) such as your master bath. Wash all rugs in hot water, at least once a week to reduce allergans.
3. Reward yourself with fresh rasberries in cream (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Watch an expose on mice, insects that want to live in your home, etc – (yuck!!!) (motivation)
2. Especially in the Fall, critters like mice look for warmer places to settle in for the winter. Clean regularly behind/under your appliances. Pick up crumbs anywhere they may lurk.
3. Reward yourself with a cookie-mouse from your fave bakery. But don't leave crumbs! (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Host Thanksgiving Dinner, this year. (motivation)
2. Have all your upholstered furniture steam cleaned. It can be a breeding ground for allergens
3. Reward yourself with a weekend away with your man. (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...
A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning –
1. Invite your neighbors over for pot-luck dinner (motivation, I hate public humiliation)
2. Thoroughly wash, in the dishwasher, if possible, all your light fixtures. Even though, they are literally right in front of us, we often forget to clean them.
3. Reward yourself with a handbag (motivation)
Janet and Maya said...More tips for Flip for Fall Cleaning
Inspect and clean all the humidifiers in the house. Although these help in the winter months, invest in a gauge so that humidity is kept at the proper level and isn’t too high, encouraging mold growth. Check with your furnace manufacturer to find out the best ways to clean or how often to replace your furnace filter. Make notes on the calendar so you don’t forget to do it! Fall is the perfect time to replace pillows! Find a store that sells Aller-ease, and pumpkins. Be patient, stick with me, I’ll tie it together. Load up the van and take the whole family on a shopping trip. Let each person pick out their new pillow (s). AND their own pumpkin. This ties it in with fall, so you’ll remember next year. Brilliant, huh? If you need the help and/or support of other family members and they are dragging their feet. Go to the Aller-Ease website and click on “Facts”. You can tell your family things like this - “An unprotected pillow increases in weight 10% every two years due to dust mites and dust mite feces.” They might just drag YOU to the store….. WOW! I learned this on the Aller-Ease site. What a great tip. I’m headed to eat the turkey in our freezer, well cook it first, of course, to make room for my daughter’s panda. Are you scratching your head? Did you know this? “Place non-washable plush toys in a zip-lock bag and put them in the freezer for 3-5 hours every week to kill off any dust mites.” Wow! Honestly, we’d have to buy a special freezer to do all my daughter’s toys every week, but once in a while, is a definite possiblity. Improvement, no matter how small is a good thing. I should have an original tip, shouldn’t I? Okay, I’ll extend this one to include decorative pillows! Do you have decorative pillows that are non-washable? Put them in the freezer ( in a bag or ewwww!) and it will kill the dust mites. Not in the freezer forever, of course, what would be the point of decorating your freezer, ha! 3-5 hours should do the trick! Do you usually take a shower in the morning and wash your hair? Switch it to at night, before you go to bed! Easy-peasy, you’ve reduce the amount of dust mite activity in your bedroom. Fall for me means football season. I like to stock up on snacks, friends will often drop by for college games on Saturday or pro games on Sunday. We're huge football fans! I live in NW Indiana and we can get alot of snow. So our summer patio furniture, etc. needs to be protected. We clean and put everything either in our shed or in the garage, so next summer it will be ready for use. I keep our off-season clothes packed away in the basement and they usually need freshening before wearing. So I have a big "laundry day" and wash all the fall clothes and "switch closets" packing away most of the summer clothes. I always leave a few out for any "indian summer" warm days. If you have a fire-pit or campfire area, make sure that it is safe and that the fire won't spread. Fall is the best time to use it, make smores, tell scary stories, but safety comes first. Too busy to set aside time for camping? Go to your local state park and if you have the equipment, camp overnight. We often camp at our nearby park, then if we have appts etc. we can still go to them, but then return to the campground. In Indiana, fall is a great time for camping - less bugs ;) Go to the beach! Huh? It's too cold to swim, but it's not too cold to walk on the beach enjoying the crisp air, watching the waves, enjoying the beauty of God's creation. If your child is like mine and very much, in their growing years, make sure that you have warm pants and shirts. In a climate like ours, the weather can change very quickly and last year's clothes won't fit our little one now! I went to a local discount store and picked up a few turtlenecks, sweatshirts and sweatpants, so we'll be prepared for that first cold day. Cough and cold season is around the corner, or already here. Make sure your family is taking their vitamins and eating balanced meals to fight off the bugs that can drag us down. Remind everyone in your family of the importance of washing your hands to fight off the spread of germs. Freeze fresh veggies and fruits - they will be much more expensive in a few months. Our fave is frozen blueberries. We have some u-pick in our area and our fortunate enough to be able to pick our own. We also have apple picking, and my cousin is good about canning applesauce. I haven't tried that yet! Start looking at the family traditions that you have surrounding the Thanksgiving holiday. Is this a good time to sort through old pictures and pull out some sentimental or funny reminders of past holidays that we are thankful for?
Felicia said...I wash my curtains to relieve some of that dusty air in our house!
Meet the Browns said...You can turn a trip to see the fall leaves into a harvest! Areas with beautiful foliage often specialize in apples, pumpkins, and other peak produce ;) Get your turkey early and freeze it so you don't have to fight other families at the meat counter :) Most fall dates between Labor Day and Thanksgiving are slow season at Walt Disney World--short lines and lower resort rates await you! Selling our clothes from last season to Plato's Closet gives us some extra cash for fall shopping :)
Marianna said...Fall is a great time to clean out those closets when you're switching from summer to winter clothes!
naynays1 said...We are also huge fans of the little allergies non-medicated gel
Anonymous said...Can't wait to try these pillows ours are shot.
checkers said...Lightly rub down your mattress and box spring with alcohol or steam thru it if you have a steamer unit. NO one likes dust mites
Denise said...I take off all the heating vents, clean them and vacumn inside the hole, you would be surprised how much dust gets in there.
bridget3496 said...We use air purifiers
Bakersdozen said...We have allergies in our family. One thing that is a must is to change the filters regularly in our air conditioner/heating unit. I also toss stuffed toys in the dryer regularly and change the bedding often. vidomich(at)yahoo(dot)como
AICORP said...remove your rugs and replace them with tile and/or wood floors. it will reduce allergens and looks nicer as well.
purango said...My house is so dusty I have to use an air purifier.
dvice said...We change our filters to clear the air
Eve said...A great way to put off allergies is to vacuum regularly, and change sheets once a week. Another way to put off allergies to clean the blinds
Ardy22 said...One allergy tip is to wear a face mask if raking leaves. Leaves irritate me, but the mask helps to reduce some of the dust.
Nancy S. said...Change your heater filter with a high quality anti-allergen product.
Ardy22 said...another tip is simply to stay indoors as much as possible. avoid the morning when its worst anotehr tip is to keep your windows and doors shut as best as possible
Gianna said...We clean one room top to bottom each day :)
Donna said...1Steam clean your carpets.
masonsgranny59 said...KEEP FANS CLEAN:)
Heather said...One tip! If given the choice between leather and cloth furniture, go with the leather. Much easier on your allergies!
Swtlilchick said...Use a damp rag to capture dust before it flies off,Take a shower after cleaning and Avoid wool blankets and mold-attracting foam rubber cushions, pillows, and mattresses
12 months ago - Comment
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dayeni and here's the last tips from SS
Jamie said...
Swap out my white picute frames for black ones
Jamie said...
Checking for proper fit of winter coats/hats/gloves and replacing what needs replaced.
Jamie said...
Putting storm windows in place of screens.
Jamie said...
Treating the outside of the house for spiders since they LOVE to find their way in once it turns colder.
Jamie said..
Replace the batteries in the smoke detectors and replace any that seem defective.
Jamie said...
Vacuum and flip the mattresses on the beds.
taysmommy said...
Since we are always in and out of our shed in the summer I always like to give it a good cleaning so it will be in great condition for next spring/summer.
taysmommy said...
cleaning the gutters is a must have. My hubby hates to do it in teh summer when its super hot so doing it in teh fall is the perfect time.
Jamie said...
Oil change and transmission check on the cars.
Jamie said...
Rake and/or mulch leaves as they fall so it doesn't become one big job to be done.
taysmommy said...
I always chop down all my annual flowers in the fall. Makes my yard look alot nicer through the rough winter months
Jamie said...
We usually get dental check-ups in the fall, so its out with the old and in with the new on the tooth brushes too.
taysmommy said...
Fall is also a great tome to clean out my pantry. Out with the old and in with the new. haha...I'm actually pretty bad about this...I just found a 7 year old bor of baking soda! lol
taysmommy said...
come fall I usually pack up my summer bed spread and bust out the good ol down confortor. I love being all warm and snuggly when its getting cool out.
taysmommy said...
we also like to start our collection of fire wood come fall. Its nice to hang out by the fire pit with friends on weekends when its chilly out.
Jamie said...
Replace the rugs in the kitchen.
Ardy22 said...
In the Fall, we clean all the windows in the house and general bi annual cleanup
taysmommy said...
Once it get s little cooler in the fall we bundle up the hose and put it in the shed for safe keeping throughout the cold winter months.
Jamie said...
I have a different "welcome" sign that I hang on the back door for each season, so I put my fall/halloween one up on the first day of fall.
taysmommy said...
I check to make sure my mini portable heater is still working. My bedroom can get pretty cold...and I'd hate to need it one night and not have it working.
taysmommy said...
I pull out the good ol plastic carpet protector to save my carpet from yucky boots, snow and salt.
taysmommy said...
I put a cute basket by the front door to catch all the hats and gloves otherwise they end up all over my house
taysmommy said...
I rewash all out "snuggley" blankets that sit in a corner behind the couch.
taysmommy said...
I do the dreaded task of vacumning under the beds. Between the dog and cat tracking stuff inside who knows whats waiting for me under there!
taysmommy said...
I'm sure to pull out all the flannel sheets for our beds...extra warmth!
taysmommy said...
open all the windows and air the house out!
taysmommy said...
Its a good time to test and make sure teh furnace is still working ok. You don't want to turn it on one chillf day and have it not working....happened to us before!
taysmommy said...
I pull out all the winter clothes, dust the shelves and out the summer stuff in.
Donna said..
I deep clean the carpets.
taysmommy said...
clean the patio furniture off and wrap it in plastic to survice ohios snowly winter
taysmommy said...
touch up the paint on my little patio
taysmommy said...
empty and change the bag in teh vacumn...salt can really do some damage!
taysmommy said...
unsubsribe to emails I usually ignore...does a wonder on my inbox
taysmommy said...
vacumn very carefully around all the walls. Its amazing what I miss every other time I vacumning.
taysmommy said...
clean out and wipe down the fridge
taysmommy said...
get in betweent the sills on my windows
taysmommy said...
clean all the coils on my fridge
taysmommy said...
my FIL is going to install gutter protectors so that next year we wont have to deal with all the falling leaves and possible clogging
taysmommy said...
we check teh dryer exhaust tube...more then once a nice little birdy has made a home
taysmommy said...
check the attic insulation and see if more needs to be added
Gianna said...
Clean a room top to bottom every day.
taysmommy said...
deep clean the entire bathroom...I'm sure there is lots of yucky stuff from all that moisture
Heather said...
We try on iffy clothes and shoes, get rid of things by donating them, then do a full-house scrub-down.
taysmommy said...
scrub the oven down! I use it alot more in the winter then I do summer
Rajee said...
Fall cleaning means packing up all the summer items and breaking out the winter items
September 20, 2009 9:39 PM
12 months ago - Comment
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Emily Wow - what great ideas!!! Thank you so much for sharing all these!! It's wonderful having you here in TheMotherhood!! I have a seven year old daughter too - what a great age, don't you think!
12 months ago
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dayeni Seven going on 21 it seems lately! She's fun though - the horse obsession has started so now she's trying to figure out how we can have a pony in the backyard lol
Thanks Emily!12 months ago
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Kimberly@Prett Tips from Pretty Pink Momma Readers:
MOMFOREVERANDEVER said... 1 one of the biggest thing we do is take care of the windows- by that washing the drapes and cleaning the blinds and windows. If you can take off the blinds and hose them down and use dawn to deslime and dedust. Clean windows and check seals and get ready for mr iceman to come knocking
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
blabla3269 said... 2 we do fall cleaning not spring so we are fresh eery winter!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
flowerchild said... 3 i do my fall cleaning,go thru the hole house cleaning and getting rid of everything we don't use..
thanks
flower_child_23(at)hotmail(dot)com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Susan said... 4 In the fall I do a complete cleaning of window washing, flipping the mattresses, clean out closets and dresser drawers and do a good cleaning of the entire house using disinfectant. I always keep a can of disinfectant handy in the bathroom and kitchen as well as wipes that I use to wipe the phone, taps and door handles.
ryanw@mts.net
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Laura said... 5 We flip for fall with a deep house cleaning. We also have the carpets and air ducts professionally cleaned and the furnace inspected.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tammy B said... 20 We do alot around her for fall but one of my favorite tips to share is to have a list of every room in your house...(Guest bathroom, Downstairs closet, Pantry, Kitchen, Family Room etc.) Once you have cleaned it top to bottom, check it off and add the date completed. It takes me about a month to get through the entire house but I am also sorting and organizing besides just cleaning. It is so rewarding to see the list completed. I try to to this twice a year to keep me sane from all the dust and dirt a family can bring to the house.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tammy B said... 21 Outide Flip for Fall:
Plant bulbs, clean gutters, cut back shrubs and dead head all the plants, organize the garage so that everything fits back in nicely after the summer, hang up bikes and cover all the outdoor furniture with covers to help protect them during the winter.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tammy B said... 22 Another thing we do to Flip for Fall is to go through all the kids clothes and toys. We donate or hand down clothes to friends in need. We donate all the toys the kids have grown out of or do not want anymore and donate them to a clothing bank where my MIL works.
PPM
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Joy said... 23 We clean out our closets. Our version of sprin cleaning. Thanks. magic5905@embarqmail.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Anonymous said... 24 I like to change the curtains to fall/winter colors. I take down the summer curtains, wash and put away. Thanks.
emmy5905@embarqmail.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Anonymous said... 25 We bring out our fall/winter sheets and put away the summer sheets. Thanks.
franandbill5905@embarqmail.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Anonymous said... 26 We put away our quilt and bring out the full comfy soft comforter for the cold nights. Thanks.
husband5905@embarqmail.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Anonymous said... 27 We don't really do anything special for the fall. We do like to open our windows and get fresh air in since the air is a little cooler and less humidity. Thanks.
writer5905@embarqmail.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Josie said... 28 I constantly clean. We get all the vents cleaned and change the filters regularly.
We go through all the clothes that don't fit anymore and toys we don't play with anymore and donate them to charities.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Anonymous said... 31 I vacuum the entire house top to bottom. I go everywhere.
snowwolf@graffiti.net
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Foursons said... 32 I do a Fall clean-up just like I do in the Spring. But mostly, I make sure all the dust-balls hiding in the corners and under furniture are cleaned out and the vents are cleaned.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
I like to clean out my closets at the end of each season to get rid of things we no longer wear.
jedoggett@embarqmail.com
Thursday, September 17, 2009
We do a spring cleaning in the fall. cleaning the carpets and drapes helps our allergies out a bit and freshens up the house before we close it up for the winter.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Wanna-Doo said... 70 Heard of Spring Cleaning? Well, round here we do Fall Cleaning. Gotta get the house nice and spiffy since we spend most of the winter cooped up in it. We do the typical weatherizing, scubbing, yard work, so on. When everything is finished we light a fire in the fireplace and bring on the hot cocoa.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
I like to shampoo the carpets in the fall before the holidays arrive.
Friday, September 18, 2009
audrey said... 81 In the Fall, i like to cook so much more-hearty soups, casseroles; so I am busy in the kitchen.
Friday, September 18, 2009
bison61 said... 82 I do fall cleaning,windows are cleaned plus the drapes, carpets will be shampooed and then store the summer clothes and bring out the winter clothes!
tiramisu392 (at) yahoo.com
Friday, September 18, 2009
Lisa said... 83 Other than going shopping for a new fall wardrobe and school supplies (a feat in itself) I sadly don't have any other fall preparation duties.
the_outsider01AThotmailDOTcom
Friday, September 18, 2009
lindoksu said... 84 I love any item which makes life easier and cleaner.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 85 As someone with both allergies and asthma, I take fall cleaning very seriously. I change the HEPA filter on my vacuum, and vacuum everything possible, moving furniture to do so.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 86 As someone with both allergies and asthma, I take fall cleaning very seriously. I change the furnace air filter.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 87 I shampoo the carpet and stairs on a nice day when I can leave the doors open for fresh air.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 88 I flip the mattresses, then treat them with Febreze allergan removing spray. (I love this stuff, and use it in my weekly cleaning.)
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 89 Every week of course I change and wash sheets, but in spring and fall I wash all the other linens...curtains, bed skirts, throws, and pillows, using fragrance-free hypoallergenic laundry detergent, of course.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 90 I Febreze (allergan removing spray) everything that can't be fit into the wash machine, including sofa, love seat, seat cushions, etc.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 91 I dust the furniture with Pledge multi-surface wipes, which do a better job of trapping dust and grime, especially from electronics.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 92 I self-clean the oven, on a day when I can open up the house, or a day when I won't be home to deal with the fumes.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 93 I get out the flannel sheets and heavy comforters and Febreze allergen removing formula) them, too.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Brenda said... 94 Last but not least I thoroughly clean the windows before weather-proofing them for the winter. Whew!
Friday, September 18, 2009
nick said... 95 I LET MY CLEAN THE WINDOWS..HAHAHA
Friday, September 18, 2009
Anonymous said... 96 We steam clean all therugs and furniture..flip and vacuum the mattresses, and watch all the window coverings
karryknisley76 at hotmail dot com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
I'm trying to get rid of the stuff we don't need before the weather gets bad
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Linda said... 104 We do a thorough cleaning of each room - one per weekend.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
danielledonohue said... 105 We do a lot of cleaning outside before the big rains!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Julie said... 106 We change the filter in the furnace
before we turn it for colder weather
aunteegem@yahoo.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Julie said... 107 Go through the attic and closets-pull out clothes and stuff we don't need. Take to consignment shop(hopefully make xtra money) and take to Goodwill
aunteegem@yahoo.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Julie said... 108 take down all the curtains in the house and wash them
aunteegem@yahoo.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Julie said... 109 All the winter bedding gets washed before being placed on the beds
aunteegem@yahoo.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Julie said... 110 Clean out the woodstove and pipe for cresote
aunteegem@yahoo.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
we change our batteries for the smoke alarms in October
aunteegem@yahoo.com
Saturday, September 19, 2009
VickieB said... 113 We've been working on some major cleaning and will also be changing our filter the first of next month.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
chromiumman said... 121 we wash the drapes and the blinds
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Janet and Maya said... 122 A tip for Flip for Fall Cleaning -
1. Invite house guests (motivation)
2. Clean areas that are prone to populate allergens - carpet, bedding
3. Reward yourself with a spa day (motivation)
Can you tell I often need motivation?
mayacarpenter at verizon dot net
Sunday, September 20, 2009
AmyLynn said... 123 We go through each room and do a "fall cleaning" like spring cleaning time.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
I FLIP FOR FALL BY GETTIN RID OF ALL MY SON'S PREVIOUS SCHOOL YEAR NOTES/HOMEWROK ETC.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
thaeter7 said... 157 we put on the heavier comforters an health sheets
Sunday, September 20, 2009
jsc123 said... 164 In the fall we do a cleaning that is very similar to spring cleaning on our home. That way when it is time to close the house up for winter there are less allergens,dust etc.
It truly helps all of our allergies throughout the winter months.
Thank you so much for the chance to win.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
carole37 said... 178 I flip the mattresses, flip the carpets to the other direction, flip on the washer, flip off the ceiling fans and clean them. Then sit down and flip down some apple cider and a donut.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
spacebarshift said... 179 Rub a helium-filled balloon against your hair, body or anything that creates static electricity to collect dust particles or webs in hard-to-reach corners or spots.
Sunday, September 20, 200912 months ago - Comment
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dayeni and a few more from SS - I'm overwhelmed at the response!
purango said...
We clear out our sunner items. We store some and give a lot to charity. The house has to be c leaned and prepared for winter.
stephanie said..
Schedule fall furnace inspections so we don't have to wait for the first cold night!
Jessica said...
flip all the mattresses in the house
Jamie said...
Wash the mini blinds :)
jamie said...
Dust out the fireplace
Jamie said...
Replace the furnace filter
Jamie said...
Change my candle scents from pretty flower smells to warm fall/winter smells
Jamie said...
Wash all of the heavy quilts for the beds
saundra said...
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Jamie said...
Make sure there is enough gas in the garage for the snow blower
patrick said..
Check weather stripping and caulking around doors and windows
patrick said...
drain and coil up the garden hoses
patrick said...
clean the gutters or so my wife told me i have to do next weekend
Jamie said...
Remove flip flops from the closet to make room for warmer shoes.
Anonymous said...
have the chimney swept and check the dampers
jamie said...
Finally turning off the AC and saving money for about 6 weeks before the heat comes on
Jamie said...
Storing the "fun" car for the winter
Jamie said...
Stocking the pantry with comfort foods
Jamie said...
Cleaning the carpets to prepare them for the heavy salt traffic.
Jamie said...
Dusting off the crock pot, lol
12 months ago - Comment
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dayeni from SS
Gina said...
AIR IT OUT! After everything being closed all summer and the A/C flowing open the windows shake out the rugs let some fresh air in to air the house out!
kngmckellar said...
I wash the curtains and windows. Clean the garage out and rake the leaves. Get rid of stuff we don't need or use anymore by having a garage sale before it get cold.
kngmckellar@hotmail.com
cdmarteny said...
i love to steam clean carpets and wood floors spring and fall
checkers said...
My tip would be start on the outside of the house first, like cleaning windows, frames, door, washing siding or pressure washing brick down first, then do your inside of the home, I find this easier?
Maja said...
we have "spring cleaning" in the fall
bridget3496 said...
I love fall and all the colors. I change everything out for seasons. From floral arrangements to candles and throws as well as decorative pillows. So the change always inspires me to clean!
Bakersdozen said..
We go through our cloesets and get out the warmer clothes and see what the kids need. I also love going through my recipes and looking for ones for delicious soups and baked goods.
dvice said...
We try to get out the fall clothes and put away summer stuff
Gina said...
Don't forget to do some fall cleanup in your inbox as well.. organize emails, dump the trash.
Gina said...
For the home, make sure you go through your closets and drawers and get rid of all that stuff you don't want, don't wear or doesn't fit!
Gina said...
Organize your kitchen/bathroom cabinets! Check expiration dates on food and medicine.
katybug said...
We start using our flannel sheets - it gets cold in New England!
Gina said...
Another tip, make a list! Try to tackle at least one thing each week to get that fall cleaning done.
Gina said...
Fall marks the start of the 'holiday' season, so make sure to clean up your monthly bills and expenses, see if you can trim down some stuff to save up that extra cash.
Gina said... don't forget during your cleaning of everything else to Change the filter for your heating-and-AC system
Gina said...
Clean painted woodwork with a solution of 1/2 cup white vinegar, 1 cup ammonia, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1 gallon of lukewarm water. No rinsing is necessary with this solution.
Gina said...
Clean vinyl shower curtains without taking them down by wiping them with a sponge dampened with white vinegar.
Gina said...
Plow or till the garden in the fall to expose both hibernating insects and weed seeds, which will then perish.
Gina said...
Dead leaves and needles on a shingled roof hold water and hasten the deterioration of the shingles. Sweep or hose them off in both spring and fall.
Gina said...
Transfer boxed fertilizers or garden chemicals in your garden shed to plastic containers now, as their original cardboard packaging may deteriorate over the winter. Don't forget to label the new containers.
Gina said...
In some areas, it's illegal to burn brush. If you're not going to dispose of brush once it's cut, leave it where it falls. If you gather it into a pile, it won't rot as quickly.
Gina said...
Make time in the fall to sow new grass where there has been excessive wear or damage. There's less danger of disease and weed competition in autumn than in spring, and with adequate water the new lawn will establish itself before winter.
Gina said...
Give your washing machine an annual cleaning by filling it with hot water, adding a quart of white vinegar, and running the machine through the wash and rinse cycles.
Gina said...
To clean a dishwasher, place a bowl containing 2 cups of vinegar on the bottom rack, leaving all the racks in place (but emptied of dishes!). Run the dishwasher through the wash and rinse cycles only. The vinegar will splash about inside, cleaning the whole thing.
Gina said...
Get rid of musty odors in drawers, closets, or rooms by placing a small container of scented cat litter in the affected area. Refresh the litter every few days until the odor is gone.
Gina said...
When closing up a summer cottage, place shallow pans of cider vinegar under beds and in closets. This will keep rooms from smelling stale come spring.
12 months ago - Comment
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TonyaCrain VickieB said...
Now is the time I'll take my Teddies that can be safely put in the dryer and run them on fluff to remove the dust
12 months ago - Comment
Deborah Happy Birthday!!!! Wishing you your best year yet!!!
9 months ago