Top Spring Cleaning Tips For Alleviating Allergies
If anyone in your home suffers from springtime allergies, you know that the turning of the season can be a double-edged sword. With the beautiful blooms and balmy weather comes runny noses and itchy eyes. And unfortunately, the pollen that causes these allergic reactions is easily tracked into your home. Since not all pollen is visible to the naked eye, you can be dealing with a lot more indoor pollen than you think!
If you want to get an upper hand on the pollen this season, try this spring cleaning checklist from the experts at Breathe Easy Air.
Wipe Surfaces With Microfiber Cloths
A feather duster will dislodge small particles but unfortunately will also free them back into the air. A typical cotton cloth is also not an ideal tool for cleaning surfaces, because the larger fibers tend to push around the particles instead of collecting them. Microfiber cloths are specifically made for removing fine particles. Just dampen one slightly with water before use.
Vacuum, Then Empty it the Right Way
It’s ideal to vacuum at least once or twice a week if you’re caught in the throes of pollen season.
But it’s also important to ask yourself this: how are you emptying your vacuum cleaner? Many modern-day vacuum cleaners don’t have bags, which can cause tiny particles to fly right back out into the air if you empty them indoors; if you have a canister vacuum, make sure you’re emptying the canister outdoors. If your vacuum uses a disposable bag, you won’t have to take this extra step. This is also something to remember when it’s time to purchase a new vacuum cleaner.
Prevent Pollen From Entering Your Home
It might be tempting to save on your AC bill by cracking a window, but you’ll allow pollen in that way. Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. Another common entry point is you! Your own shoes, hair and clothing can be a major transport system. Whenever possible, leave your shoes at the door and shower after spending time outdoors.
Check Up On Your Air Filter
Your HVAC is constantly transporting fine particles around your home along with conditioned air. You can trust your standard air filter to collect some of the larger particles, but it is only capable of doing so much. You have a couple of options when it comes to keeping allergies at bay with your air filters:
- Change your air filters monthly using standard, low-efficiency filters.
- Invest in a high-efficiency air filter that is installed in your HVAC unit and can trap significantly more allergens.
Tips For General Allergies
Your spring cleaning can target more than just pollen. Other common allergens found indoors include:
- Dust & Dust Mites
- Insect & Inspect Droppings
- Pet Dander
- Mold & Mildew Spores
- Traces of Outdoor Pollutants
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Here are a few things we recommend to help keep them at bay in your home:
- Wash bedding once a week in hot water—It is a magnet for dust and dander.
- Avoid air-drying laundry whenever possible. Mildew grows very easily on damp objects.
- Look for signs of leaks that encourage mold growth, such as missing grout, wet spots in drywall and musty odors.
- If you have pets, brush them outdoors to help control dander.
- Consider a passive indoor air quality system that will help you cut down on cleaning chores dramatically while providing pure, allergen-free air.
With these tips, we wish you and your family a happy—and comfortable—spring!
If you have any additional questions about allergy season preparations or want to know how you can breathe easy in your home, call Breathe Easy at (205) 444-4444.
