If pollen allergies are a problem for you, it's a good bet that you attempt to stay inside during the early part of the day, when the pollen count is the highest. But is your home really a safe haven from allergens? Poor air circulation, window shades and bedding that attract and trap dust, and some household cleaners and chemicals, breathing the air in your home can be just as bad as an early stroll during the worst parts of hay fever season. These are the biggest indoor home allergens, so how you can rid your of them?

Dust Mites at Home

You can find dust mites just about anywhere in the house. They flourish in warm, damp areas, particularly mattresses, carpets and pillows. We continuously shed tiny skin particles, a main food for dust mites. If you have dust mite allergies, this means that you're reacting to their waste as well. This waste is stirred up into the air every time you walk over carpet of plop down on an upholstered chair or couch.

Molds at Home

Microscopic mold spores are another allergen that can cause reactions in the body when they are inhaled. These allergens thrive in moist, dim places like bathrooms (particularly the shower), basements, waste bins, laundry rooms, refrigerators, not to mention household plants. The most effective method of lower the mold spore population is by combating the habitat. Keep those humid areas dry, and clean them regularly. Use a solution that mixes about a cup of bleach with a gallon of water to kill the mildew and mold in the kitchen and bathrooms. If you can, have exhaust fans put in these rooms to keep them dry and the air circulated.

Animal Allergens

Almost 45% of homes in the U.S. claim at least one pet among the household, making animal dander (the dead flakes of skin from pets) one of the primary indoor allergens. Pet dander can float through the air of the home, and cling to furniture and burrow in carpets for weeks and months. The animal's bodily fluids, such as its urine and saliva, can also act as animal allergy triggers. If you can, don't allow your pets to roam around the house freely, and keep them out of the bedroom, and clean and brush them regularly.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches and cockroach droppings are another cause of allergy symptoms. If you experience a cockroach infestation, kill it off immediately. The proteins that cause allergies can linger for weeks to months, even after the cockroaches have ceased to inhabit a certain area. Remember to use nontoxic methods of getting rid of cockroaches if they're living in your home.

Chemical Irritants

Chemicals found in such household items as paint, plastics and carpets have caused several people to experience symptoms similar to allergies. Steer clear of these chemicals if you can. Instead, try to use hypoallergenic or non-allergenic products. If you have to use allergenic products, keep the products somewhere with good air circulation.

Strong Odors and Fumes

Some people's allergies respond to strong fragrances and odors from cleaning products. Keep the area where they are used well ventilated, and purchase cleaning products without fragrances.