While the nice weather in the Spring and Summer is often a relief from the relentless cold, it’s also a time where many people struggle with allergies. As a homeowner, there are many ways you can limit the effect of seasonal allergies by controlling particles in your home like pollen and dust. Here are some tips to get you started:
1. Dust the Right Way
One common mistake that homeowners make while attempting to clean their home is dusting with a dry rag. Always use a damp cloth so you capture the dust instead of just moving it around. Dust is the food of dust mites, so by getting rid of it, you help prevent the growth of one of the most common allergy aggravators.
2. Vacuum Regularly
Even simple cleaning steps like vacuuming once or twice a week can go a long way to prevent allergies. Try and use a vacuum with a high quality air filter, preferably a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter to capture as much dust and other particles as possible.
3. Wash Your Sheets
One of the most common places for dust mites to live and propagate is in bedding. It’s not a pleasant thought, but the good news is that you can get rid of them by washing your sheets, pillows and other bedding regularly in hot water.
4. Use Safe Chemicals
One common source of allergy triggers that often surprises homeowners are the chemicals in your cleaning products. Try to stick to natural products that avoid harsh chemicals unless you really need them.
5. Bathe Your Pet
They may be adorable, but pets have a protein in their sheddings, urine and saliva that can irritate allergies. You can reduce the presence of it by bathing them at least once a week along with your regular vacuuming.
If you expect to struggle with the effect of seasonal allergies in the near future and need professional help preparing your Twin Cities metro area home, please contact Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about seasonal allergies and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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