5 Tips for Keeping Outdoor Allergens Out of Your Home
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As the weather warms up, it’s incredibly refreshing to take a step outside and breathe in that crisp spring air. But for the 50 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies, being outdoors this time of year can quickly lead to symptoms–even when they return indoors.
So how do you keep those outdoor allergens from coming inside your home? Here are some tips on maintaining a healthy and happy indoor environment throughout the allergy season:
Tips for Keeping Outdoor Allergens Out
Monitor Pollen Levels
Having allergies doesn’t mean you have to spend all your time indoors, but it does help to plan your outdoor activities around pollen levels. Try your daily walk in the morning for example, when levels are typically very low.
Freshen Up
If you do spend time outside, just remember that your skin, hair, and clothes can carry pollen into your home. It’s a good idea to shower, wash your hair, and change your clothes once you get inside. At the very least, it’s helpful to shower before you go to bed so you keep allergens out of your bedding.
Wash Your Pets
Pets can carry pollen and mold on their coats after spending time outside. So before you cuddle up with your furry friend, be sure you’re regularly grooming and bathing them to keep allergen levels down. This will benefit your pets and your family.
Keep Your Home Clean
Keeping your windows closed will help prevent outdoor allergens from coming inside, but oftentimes that’s not enough. Here are some cleaning methods that can help minimize dust and allergens:
- Wash your bedding once a week
- Vacuum off any non-washable items like the comforter
- Steam clean and/or vacuum curtains
- Sweep and mop all hard surfaces at least once a week
- Vacuum carpets and rugs daily; using a vacuum with a HEPA filter is especially effective
Use An Air Filter
Filtering air is crucial during high allergy season. With an AprilAire air filter in your HVAC system, you can reduce allergy triggers by removing damaging airborne particles, reducing dust and dirt around your home, improving respiratory health, and ensuring your family is breathing clean, fresh, and Healthy Air.