Spring Cleaning Tips to Ease Allergies
by HMN Sponsor Boiron USA
Transform your home into a sneeze-free zone with a strategic approach to tidying.
Spring has finally arrived, and many people get the itch to clean up and organize. This is especially important if you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies. You'll have the perfect opportunity to clear away the dust, dander, and other allergens collected in your house over winter.
Before reaching for your trusted cleaning supplies, keep in mind that they may contain irritants that can trigger allergy-like symptoms. Consider switching to "green" or non-toxic cleaners like vinegar and baking soda instead. Then follow this plan of action to improve your spring cleaning and ease your allergies.
1. Clear the air – If you have central heating and cooling, wipe down the vents and change the air filter. Dust mites, mold spores, and pollen can collect in these systems. The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends choosing an air filter with a MERV rating of 11 to 13 and changing it every three months. You can also improve the air quality in rooms you spend the most time by using an air purifier.
2. Keep allergens outside – Opening windows and allowing those fresh breezes through your home can be very appealing while you clean, but it also invites a lot of pollen. Keep windows shut during high-pollen count hours (typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.). Leave shoes by the door to limit tracking pollen inside and wipe down pets when they come indoors.
3. Limit moisture – Spring is the rainiest season of all, so it's easy for mold to flourish. Run your bathroom fans during and after a shower or a bath to maintain good airflow and keep mildew at bay. Clean any visible mold in your bathroom or kitchen with soap and a natural disinfectant, such as vinegar, lemons, or rubbing alcohol.
4. Declutter, dust & wash – As you're switching out winter gear for summer clothes, launder anything that can be washed in the washing machine. This can include window treatments, bed linens, and throw pillows. Dust surfaces with a wet cloth to keep particles from spreading, and use a vacuum in hard-to-reach areas. Putting away general clutter (papers, shoes, boxes) can help make cleaning easier and prevent dust from accumulating.
5. Start medication as soon as possible – The act of cleaning itself can often trigger symptoms because it stirs up allergens. Wear a mask to protect your airways, and be prepared to tackle symptoms as soon as they start with a multi-symptom allergy medicine like RhinAllergy by Boiron. Its meltaway tablets are easy to take at the first sign to relieve an itchy or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy throat.* There are no known drug interactions, plus it won't cause drowsiness or hyperactivity, unlike antihistamines. Made for ages 2 and up, RhinAllergy is also available in kid-friendly pellets that are easier for little ones to take. No water, chewing, or swallowing is needed.
There is also a wide range of homeopathic single medicines available to address related allergic conditions. Use Boiron's Medicine Finder to pinpoint symptoms and find the best selection for you in just three clicks.
*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.