Allergies are the sixth-leading cause of chronic disease in the US. Every year, over 50 million people in the US experience or have experienced allergies.

Allergies are caused by an over-reaction of the immune system to substances in the environment. These substances are usually pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or mold.

The following is a list of tips on how to stay healthy during allergy season:

• Use a HEPA filter in your home
• Keep windows closed
• Wash bed sheets weekly
• Vacuum carpets regularly
• Keep your pets out of your bedroom and off your bed
• Take antihistamines before going outside
• Always keep your home clean and fresh

Use a HEPA filter in your home

Using a HEPA filter in your home can remove most airborne particles that might make allergies worse. But the particles suspended in air are not the only ones in your home. There are far more in your rugs, bedding, and drapes, and resting on countertops and tabletops. So it's important to keep these areas clean. It's also important, when possible, to get rid of the source of allergens and irritants. For example, the only effective way to keep tobacco smoke out of your home is to not smoke.

Keep windows closed

Windows are typically the main source of airflow for every home. Therefore, allergy-proofing your windows can provide a significant amount of relief regarding seasonal allergy since you will be able to lessen the amount of pollen being wafted into your house.

If you easily suffer from allergies during allergy season, it would be advisable to keep your windows closed most of the time and rely on air-conditioning, especially during early morning hours — this is typically when plants, weeds, and trees release pollen. With the windows of your home shut tight, pollen-carrying wind cannot enter the home. No wind, no pollen, and less likelihood of seasonal allergies.

Wash bed sheets weekly

Most people should wash their sheets once per week. If you don’t sleep on your mattress every day, you may be able to stretch this to once every two weeks or so.

Some people should wash their sheets even more often than once a week. If you have pets, and particularly if you let them sleep in your bed, a wash every 3-4 days is recommended. If you experience allergies or asthma, it may be worth it to try cleaning your bedding more frequently to see if your symptoms improve.

Vacuum carpets regularly

If there are allergy sufferers in your household, you should be extra vigilant with carpet hygiene. Microorganism can grow quickly, while dust and debris become airborne every time someone walks through the room. For those suffering from asthma or respiratory allergies, this can acerbate symptoms. The best way to prevent this is by regular vacuuming.

Keep your pets out of your bedroom and off your bed

Every time you take your dog out for a walk, it will come back with allergens of some kind on its fur. They could be dust. They could be pollen. Then the dog comes into your bedroom and spreads them all over the bed, which can trigger any allergies and is also bad news if you have asthma. Since the allergens can transfer from a pet’s fur to other surfaces, it’s best to keep them not only off your bed, but also out of your room.

Take antihistamines before going outside

If you have mild seasonal allergy symptoms when you’re outdoors—but feel better once you’re inside—it’s reasonable to try a once-a-day OTC antihistamine.

These drugs, available in chewable, liquid, and tablet form, can be taken daily until the end of allergy season. They work by blocking histamine, the symptom-causing substance released by your body when it comes in contact with an allergen.

Always keep your home clean and fresh

When it comes to regularly cleaning your home, how you set about doing it can make a huge difference in how effectively dust and allergens are removed from your living space.

Be sure to start at the top of each room and work your way down. Begin with ceiling fans and light fixtures before moving on to blinds and curtains. Dust any furniture using a disposable dust wipe and clean upholstery with a vacuum. Finish by vacuuming the floor, including the spaces underneath and behind furniture.

Keep your linens, clothes, and towels clean by washing at least once a week in hot water. As tempting as it may be, avoid hanging your laundry out to dry. Pollen in the outdoor air can come into contact with the fabrics and irritate allergies.

In the bathroom and kitchen, remove and reduce the growth of mold and mildew by using chlorine bleach (keep out of reach of children!) or hydrogen peroxide. If you choose to use a commercial mildew cleaner, be sure to read the instructions carefully.

Conclusion

A good spring cleaning once a year is a great way to reduce allergens in your home. In addition to your regular house cleaning routine, try these tips and tricks to give your home a good deep clean this spring:

Keeping allergies at bay can be a lot of work. Reduce the stress of cleaning your home to keep your allergies at bay by enlisting the help of a professional house cleaner.

Schedule Your Cleaning Service Today!