In order to help manage your child’s asthma, it’s important to keep your home free of “triggers”—all those irritants, such as dust and chemical odors, that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.  As you begin your spring cleaning ritual, be sure to limit, and even eliminate, commercial sprays and home cleaning products.  Commercial cleaning products often contain irritants that can trigger an asthma episode.  Recent research has concluded that regular use of certain harsh chemicals, cleaning products and air fresheners may increase asthma risk.  Follow the tips below to keep your house clean, your children symptom-free, and the environment green.

• Make sure asthmatic children are out of the house before you begin cleaning and until the chemical odors subside.
• Since many asthmatic children are sensitive to pollen, dust and odors, assign them chores that won’t exacerbate their asthma.  Mowing the lawn, raking leaves, sweeping, dusting, and any chores that involve the use of strong detergents and cleaning products should be avoided.
• Try making your own cleaning solutions.  Common ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, castile soap, water and a spray bottle will make effective household cleaners that are better for your family’s health and non-toxic to the environment.