Some of us can’t hear “spring” without also thinking of seasonal allergies. As the seasons change, millions of allergy sufferers in the US are preparing for the sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses.

While the severity of allergy symptoms can vary person-to-person and based on the geographical region you live in, there are ways you can avoid allergens and keep their impacts to a minimum.

Main Allergens for Spring

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise that allergy seasons could become longer and more severe as climate change affects temperatures and weather patterns globally. That makes it increasingly important to be aware of which allergens are most common where you live and to know which ones impact you the most.

Pollen: Tree pollen is most common at the start of spring, and as the weather gets warmer, grass pollen becomes more prevalent.

Grass Pollen: As spring progresses and the weather gets warmer, grass pollen becomes more prevalent.

Mold Spores: Decaying plant matter (like a pile of wet leaves) is the perfect breeding ground for mold.

Dust Mites: Dust mites thrive in warm and humid environments and can be found both indoors and outdoors. Like other allergens, they travel easily on the wind or in circulated, unfiltered air.

Strategies for Avoiding Allergens and Staying Healthy Outdoors

Now that you know what may be causing your spring allergy symptoms, try these strategies for minimizing their impact:

Check Pollen Counts: Stay informed about the pollen levels in your area by checking local weather forecasts or using websites such as the National Allergy Bureau (NAB). If pollen counts are high, consider postponing outdoor activities or planning them for later in the day when pollen levels tend to be lower.

Dress Smarter: Wearing sunglasses and hats can help protect your eyes and hair from pollen. You can even wear a mask if pollen counts are high or you’re sensitive to pollen.

Keep Windows Closed: Although it’s tempting to let the fresh spring air into your home, keeping windows closed during high pollen count days can help keep allergens out. Instead, rely on your heating and cooling systems paired with an AprilAire Whole-House Air Purifier and AprilAire MERV 16 Air Filter to create a comfortable indoor environment.

Coming Indoors: After spending time in the great outdoors, pollen can cling to your clothes, hair, and skin. As you go back inside, try removing your clothes in the garage then take a shower as soon as you can.

Dry Laundry Indoors: Hanging laundry outside to dry can cause pollen to collect on your clothes and linens. Instead, dry your laundry indoors using a dryer or a drying rack.

Maintain a Clean Home: Regularly vacuum your home using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce the number of allergens in your living space. AprilAire Whole-House Air Purifiers paired with MERV 16 Air Filters can trap up to 99%* of asthma and allergy triggers as well as capture 98%* of airborne viruses.

*Contaminants removed based on air passing through the filtering system.

Minimize Exposure to Mold Spores: To reduce the potential for mold growth in your home, use an AprilAire Whole-House Dehumidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 40–60%.