April showers bring May flowers, right? Well, it also signifies the start of the sneezing, itchy eyes, and stuffy nose that we know as allergies. Spring gets most of us looking forward to being outside again for the season, exposing us to different levels of indoor allergens such as dust, mold, and pet dander. If you’re looking for ways to combat pollen season inside your home, we have a few suggestions!
Here are four tips to help reduce and prevent indoor allergens:
Replace Air Filters
With temperatures heating up, many of us have already started to turn our air on. Allergens like dust and pet dander can lurk in ducts. It’s recommended that you use a high-efficiency HVAC filter to reduce the amount of harmful indoor allergens that circulate through your home. Don’t forget to change your air filter at least every 90 days. A good tip is to change it with the seasons to help you remember.
Change your Bedding More Frequently
When you’re outside, you don’t realize the amount of pollen that gets on things like your clothes, your hair, and even your skin! Not to mention, things like dust mites can be common indoor allergens that are found in pillows, mattresses, carpeting, and upholstered furniture. Invest in allergen-proof covers for your mattresses, box springs, and pillows to help minimize allergens you may encounter while you sleep. Washing your sheets and pillowcases in hot water at least once a week can also drastically reduce the amount of pollen you’re encountering on a regular basis.
Regularly Clean Your House and Dust
Spring cleaning gets taken to another level when you’re attempting to curb allergens. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter at least once a week can cut down on indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollens. When dusting books and knick-knacks, use a microfiber cloth that will hold the dust versus pushing it around. If you’re super allergic to pollen and dust, try using an N95 filter mask while cleaning.
When possible, opt for hardwood flooring in your new Triangle area home. Hardwood floors are easier to clean, simply because you can see the dust when cleaning, however, you can also use washable area rugs to help cut down on allergens.
Avoid Pets Dander
Pet allergens are found in the saliva and dander of cats and dogs, so make sure to do your research before getting a new fury friend. You’ll find certain types of pets are hypoallergenic. Bathing pets regularly can help reduce the amount of dander they shed. Last but not least, don’t forget to wash your hands immediately after petting a cat or dog to keep your symptoms from acting up. It’s probably a good idea to keep pets out of bedrooms and vacuum carpets often to reduce allergens as well.
If your allergies get worse during the spring, you’re not alone. We encourage you to make cleaning a family fun activity that can be done together on a weekly basis to cut down on the extra pollen this season.
For more home tips and tricks, visit our blog.