For most people, the arrival of spring marks a fresh start to the year and a time to look forward to outdoor activities. Unfortunately, if you are an allergy sufferer, it can also be the beginning of uncomfortable symptoms as trees, plants and grass start to grow after winter. Fortunately, your home can be a haven from some of the allergy misery and here’s how you can allergy proof your home.
Close Up Your House:
As spring approaches and the temperatures start to rise, you are likely to want to air out your house and enjoy the warmer climate. Unfortunately, for allergy sufferers, this is the last thing you should do. The best way to keep your home allergy proof is to keep windows and doors shut. Keeping the house closed up will reduce the risk of pollen and other allergens entering. It may be possible to open up windows at night, but during the day, you will need to keep the home sealed up tight. Keep your air conditioning running as often as possible to keep the air cool and filter out any allergens in the indoor air.
Have Your HVAC System Cleaned and Serviced:
This is one of the most effective ways to alleviate allergy symptoms in spring. Having the ducts cleaned and filters replaced will remove any existing allergens from the system. It is also an excellent opportunity to ensure that your air conditioning is in tip top condition before the hotter summer temperatures arrive.
It is worth taking the time to clean your outdoor compressor of any winter debris or dirt that may have accumulated. Cleaning will not only help the compressor to perform properly, but you could reduce the risk of introducing pollen and dirt into your indoor air.
Spring Clean Your Bathroom:
Mold can be a serious irritant for anyone, but it can be particularly problematic for allergy sufferers. While it is a good idea to spring clean the whole house, you should pay particular attention to your bathroom as it is the ideal place for mold to develop. Use a nontoxic product to clean down the walls, floor and fixtures thoroughly. If you do find any indication of mildew or mold, use specialist cleaner or bleach to remove it. If there are any signs of a leak or water damage, you will need to have the area inspected and the underlying problem corrected. You should also check that your exhaust fan is properly operating and venting, to keep the humidity levels down.
Wash All Soft Furnishings:
Winter can be a very good time for dust and debris to accumulate, so you can immediately improve your air quality by washing all your soft furnishings. Give curtains, throw pillows and bedding a freshen up. This will not only reduce dust and allergens in the air, but it will help your home to smell spring fresh.
Although these measures may not totally eliminate any allergens in your home, they will certainly improve your indoor air quality. Maintaining your indoor air quality will go a long way to helping you cope with your allergy symptoms, providing a haven from all high pollen levels outside and allowing you to enjoy the arrival of spring.