Maybe you’ve heard this funny quote: Spring – when your nose does more running than you do! (Unknown)
That’s because spring is…allergy season!
If you have allergies, you may suffer from sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy and watering eyes. You may even have hives or a rash.
But what you know is that allergies are annoying – and you do what you can to reduce their symptoms.
If you suffer from seasonal or other allergies (for example to fragrances or dust), there are some housekeeping tips that can help to relieve them. Here are a few of the most helpful tips to get you started!
Vacuum Regularly
Carpeting and rugs are notorious for holding dust and allergens. Because of this, if you suffer from allergies, you may need to vacuum them daily. This will help to minimize the amount of allergens in your home – especially during peak allergy season. Additionally, a vacuum with a HEPA filter can help.
Get Rid of Clutter
You love your knickknacks and tchotchkes, but they do collect a lot of dust – and pollen. And if you have a lot of other things cluttering your home, it’s probably time to do something about it in the name of helping your allergies. Spend some time decluttering, so there are fewer places for allergens to rest. Plus, you’ll probably love the way your home looks and feels when you’re done!
Watch for Mold
Mold is a common allergen. In fact, it’s estimated that 10% of all Americans are allergic to mold and about half of those who are allergic to it experience actual illness from it. (According to HealthDay) Mold is common in places that are damp or prone to moisture – such as the bathroom or kitchen – so be vigilant in watching areas such as these for signs of mold.
Change Your Sheets Weekly
Changing your sheets weekly and washing them in hot water can cut down on your allergy symptoms. Doing this will kill dust mites, another common allergy for people.
Avoided Scented Cleaning Products
Do you have an allergy to certain fragrances? Then you’ll want to avoid cleaners, detergents, and room deodorizers that are scented. Be sure to read product labels carefully to avoid things that trigger your allergies.
Mop Your Floors Regularly
Lots of people dry sweep their floors, but when you wet mop, you will pick up more particles and debris. Mopping can definitely help you collect allergens and hopefully prevent their dreaded symptoms.
Sweep Your Patio/Entryway
If you have allergies to things in the great outdoors, spend some time sweeping your patio or entryway. This will make it less likely that you’ll bring those things into your home.
Change Your HVAC Filters as Needed
If you don’t know the last time you changed the filters in your HVAC system, it’s probably time to do so. Those filters are designed to improve your home’s air quality, which can definitely have an impact on your allergies.
Clean Your Curtains and Blinds
Like carpets and rugs, curtains and blinds can attract dust and other allergens. Give them some attention regularly so that they’re not exacerbating your allergies. Be sure to check out “Our Best Dusting Tips & Tricks” for a great one to help you clean blinds!
Remove Shoes Before Going Inside
Nowadays, most people have adopted a “no shoes in the house” policy, but if you haven’t yet, you might want to consider it. Shoes track in all sorts of things, so why not drop them at the door and put on a comfy pair of house shoes?
If you suffer from allergies, you know what an annoyance they are. But when you keep your home clean, you may be able to reduce the allergens that are bothering you.
Mini Maid offers residential cleaning that can be scheduled to meet your needs – and we can even be there more often for you during peak allergy season. Additionally, we use cleaning supplies that are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and non-caustic. Contact us today to see how we can help!
