Spring is finally here! People have been celebrating the advent of spring throughout history. One way we celebrate in modern times is by spring cleaning our homes. Not only does a thorough spring clean help you feel accomplished and organized, but, if you’re among the 106 million Americans with allergies, it may also help reduce your allergy symptoms.
How Does Spring Cleaning Impact Allergy Symptoms?
While we tend to associate allergies with outdoor triggers like pollen, many allergens can be found right in your home. Some may include:
- Dust mites
- Pet dander
- Mold
- Cockroach droppings
During the spring, pollen can also fly in through open windows or get carried in on your clothes or pets.
By cleaning these allergens out of your home, you remove the indoor source of your symptoms.
Spring Cleaning Tips
Cleaning your whole house can feel overwhelming. Instead of fretting over the laundry list of tasks, tackle each room at a time:
- Bathrooms. The main allergen to look out for in your bathrooms is mold. Mold thrives in warm, humid environments. During your spring clean, wipe down the shower, toilet and sinks with a bathroom-specific spray. Pay extra attention to the caulked seams where your fixtures meet the wall, as they tend to retain water. You may need to re-caulk if you can’t remove the mold. Finally, sweep and mop the floors and wash towels. If you have an exhaust fan, clean it out so it can remove moisture effectively.
- Bedrooms. Pet dander and dust mites are the central allergens in your bedrooms. Remove and wash all your bedding, including duvet inserts and pillows. Clear out old clothes from your closets, and vacuum, sweep and mop. Next, dust any shelves and hard furniture. Finally, vacuum or sweep and mop the floors and under the bed. If your mattress is more than eight years old, consider replacing it and placing an allergen cover on it.
- Living spaces. Living spaces, including hallways, closets and your dining room, are all prone to pet dander, dust and pollen. Just as you do in your bedrooms, clean the floors, including those in your closets, and dust or wipe down any hard furniture or shelving. Wash pillows and throw blankets, and vacuum the carpeting. If you have an upholstery attachment on your vacuum, use it on your couch and other soft furniture. Wipe down any blinds and wash your curtains in a washing machine if possible.
- Kitchen. You can find mold, dust, pet dander and pollen throughout the kitchen. Because of the number of appliances, this room may take extra time to clean. Start by discarding expired food and wiping down the interior. Then clean the stove, microwave and any exhaust fans, including ceiling vents. Sweep and mop the floors and wipe down all appliances and countertop surfaces. Finish by cleaning the sink and emptying and washing trash cans, which are especially prone to mold.
Following the above spring cleaning tips will set you up for a season of clearer breathing. For more information about managing your allergies in the long term, contact Ear, Nose and Throat Associates today.