"Gsundheit! Thank you.”

If this is a common exchange around your home, chances are dirt and dust mites may be setting off an avoidable allergy alarm. We’ll never be able to eliminate all the allergy-inducing culprits that make our lives and sinuses miserable during fall and winter months, but we can take additional precautions to make the season as sneeze-free as possible. Here are 7 great tips for removing dust, chemicals and other toxins invading your happy home.

1. KEEP FLOORS, CARPETS, RUGS AND OTHER TEXTILES DUST FREE

Seems like a simple enough solution, but good intentions don’t always take care of the problem efficiently. If you have hardwood floors, make sure you’re collecting the dust for removal, not just spreading it around. Use damp cloths over dry ones to help gather the dust effectively. If you have carpet, make sure your vacuum is fitted for the style you have for maximum effect. Take rugs and pillows outside weekly and shake out the excess dust that has collected. Change out the sheets, too – they’re big culprits for trapping dust.

2. CLEAN YOUR FILTERS REGULARLY

Whether a furnace,  central air conditioning or heating system, keep all vents and filters clean. The more buildup, the more likely that grime will invade your home, piece by piece.

3. AVOID CLUTTER

Less is more when trying to avoid dust bunnies. Keep display items to a minimum and make sure floors are clear of magazines, toys, books, etc., as they are playgrounds for dust mites.

4. ELIMINATE SMOKING IN THE HOUSE

Take the cigarette outside. Or better yet, nix the habit all together. You’ll be saving money and reducing your chance for serious illness down the road.

5. GET INSPECTED

Live in an older home and not sure if asbestos, radon and lead paint are lingering? Hire a professional to investigate, as these are proven cancer-causing chemicals that have no place in any home.

6. DITCH THE PESTICIDES

If you have insect issues, take an organic approach to getting rid of pests. Keep the kitchen clean and free of dirty dishes or open food containers that attract roaches. Try non-chemical solutions, such as EcoSMART organic insecticide products, for flies and other pests. A can of Raid in closed quarters can do more harm than good.

7. FILTER YOUR TAP WATER

Did you know the EPA regulates tap water, but not bottled? Not to mention, all those plastic bottles aren’t doing the environment any favors. Get a filter for your tap and save big bucks. Another option? Pick up portable PUR or Brita filtration systems and keep it cold in the fridge. Bye, bye chemicals and contamination, hello great tasting hydration.