Spring has arrived and for many people, that means the arrival of their seasonal allergies as well. Our homes really should be our sanctuary—the place we can be the most comfortable. But, when allergens are in our home, it can be just as miserable there as being outdoors. While there is no 100% way to keep allergens out of our homes, there are some strategies we can use to help lower them, which alone can bring us significant relief.
Filter the Air.
Using HEPA filters for your HVAC system, or even UV light systems can help kill bacteria and filter out dust and pollen before it is airborne in your bedroom and living spaces.
Wash After Yard Work.
After mowing or doing other yard work (which we assume you do with face coverings such as sunglasses and a bandana over your nose and mouth), put your clothes immediately into the laundry and take a shower, or at least wash your face and hands.
Wipe Your Car Door Handle.
After being parked outside your car can easily be covered in pollen. Wipe the door handle before you grab it, or wipe your hands clean after you’ve gotten inside your car to remove pollen from your hands that can easily be transferred to your face or other surfaces you may touch.
Remove Your Shoes.
Studies have shown that your shoes track in bacteria, dirt, debris, and other outdoor pollutants. Take off your shoes at the door and keep them from spreading grime through your house. If you have pets, wipe their paws as they come indoors as well.
Shower Before Bed.
Your hair holds onto pollen and dust, so consider showering before bed so that your hair is clean when it hits your pillow. Transferring that yuck from your hair to your pillow can then cause it to get into your eyes, nose, and mouth—a fast track to allergy symptoms.
Audit Your Environment.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of American states the greatest cause of allergies come from dust mites, pet dander, and cockroaches. Check your space for areas where these could be problematic and resolve them. Areas to focus on include: carpeting, soft furniture, bedding, indoor plants, damp areas, and pets/pet bedding.
Hire a cleaning company.
Make a plan to eliminate or swap out items that may hold allergens. For items you keep, have a good cleaning schedule to ensure allergens don’t build up, such as regular dusting, vacuuming, pet hair removal, laundry, and upholstery cleaning. If you can’t do it yourself, or don’t want to, hire a professional cleaning company to help.
Award-winning cleaning company, A Cleaning Service, has been serving the Greater Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland areas for over 30 years. Call us for a quote today and we will help remove allergens, dirt and dust from your home!