Seasonal allergies can turn an otherwise beautiful day into a day of misery. If you live in an area that expenses high levels of pollen, you may think that spring just isn’t the season for you. The good news is there are so many things you can do to improve the air quality in your home and even tips you can use for when you go outdoors.
Dust and Vacuum Weekly
It’s important to keep dust and dust mites under control. This means taking the time to dust and vacuum weekly. Dust can add up in the home quickly. Just make this part of your weekly cleaning list and the job will go faster than if you don’t do it for a longer period.
Wash Curtains and Bedding Regularly
You also want to wash bedding and curtains regularly. Bedding can hold on to dust mites. This means you want to wash your bedding weekly in water that is at least 130 degrees. This temperature will kill any dust mites. While you’ve got your bed stripped down, be sure to add a mattress protector for extra protection.
Keep the Temperature Low
Dust mites can’t thrive in cool environments. You want to make sure to keep your home temperature less than 77 degrees. While opening the windows can help air out your home, you want to rely on your air conditioner because it allows you to filter the air coming into your home. You also want to make sure your air conditioner stays in good condition. We offer the perfect plan, with our Energy Savings Maintenance Agreement, which keeps your unit in excellent working order and saves you money each month.
Check the Allergy Warnings for the Area
Each day, check the allergy warnings for your area and plan your day accordingly. For example, if the allergens are going to be low, it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the spring weather. It’s also a good time to air out your home. If the allergens are high, this is a good time to enjoy indoor activities.
Protect the Eyes and Mouth When Outdoors
When you’re outside, be sure to protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses or regular glasses. This helps keep allergens out of your eyes. Also, any time you’re doing yard work, wear a mask. This is especially important if you’re mowing or doing other activities that will stir up allergens.
Check the Filter on your Air Conditioner
HVAC filters do exactly what you think, they filter the air before passing through your heater or air conditioner and back into your home. After a while, they start to clog from all the dust and pollen in the air. So you want to make sure you check your filter once a month and change it every 1-3 months.
Take an Allergy Medication
Last, but not least, if you find that you’re still suffering, it may be time to take an allergy medication. There are several on the market and you can ask your doctor which would be best for you. Also, if the OTC medications don’t work, speak to your doctor about prescription medications or allergy shots.
You don’t have to live with allergy symptoms. There are so many easy things you can do to make your home more comfortable. And, if all else fails, speak to your doctor about the options available for treating your allergies.
