Spring is here and unfortunately so is pollen season. Itchy eyes, runny nose, and other unpleasant hay fever symptoms are a result of what's happening outside, but it's just as important to pay attention to what's happening inside.
Our design and air quality experts share simple steps you can take in your home to avoid exacerbating your spring allergies. With a few adjustments to your routine, stopping and smelling the flowers won't be as tiring anymore.
From choosing the best cleaning products on the shelf to investing in the right helpers, here are the pros' suggestions.
It's pollen season: Here's how to avoid symptoms at home
If you'd rather not have Kleenex so close, take appropriate steps in your cleaning routine, bedtime, etc. to prevent pollen buildup in the house. That doesn't fit with these spring decoration ideas .
1. Use silk pillowcases
(Image credit: Getty Images/Liudmila Chernetska)
Even if you get the best bedding and sleep with the most comfortable pillows , you'll never get a good night's sleep if you breathe in pollen.
Next Homeware conducted research from Allergy UK and found that the one place most likely to transfer pollen is your pillow. A simple switch from typical cotton to silk, which has natural hypoallergenic properties, could make all the difference and ease spring allergies.
2. Create a suitable entry
(Image credit: Oak Furnitureland)
Small trends in the entrance area are not only eye-catching and inviting, but also provide the necessary buffer, especially when the pollen season is in full swing.
"Create a stylish entryway near all exterior doors where shoes and outerwear can be removed and stored," says Jen Nash, design manager at Magnet . "This prevents pollen from entering the house. Functional solutions such as coat racks and shoe benches can keep the room tidy."
Pro tips for decluttering a small entryway are a step in the right direction. Invest in pieces like the SONGMICS shoe rack from Amazon , separate outerwear with a wardrobe , and store accessories like umbrellas.
Jen Nash is the design director at Magnet, a renowned kitchen brand. She has experience with countertops and cabinets and is an expert in the industry.
3. Seal your windows
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"Make sure your home's windows and doors are properly sealed. This prevents pollen from getting in," adds Jen.
XFasten Clear Window and Door Duct Tape on Amazon fills in the gaps, but believe it or not, your curtain panels work really well too, according to Jen.
"Hanging curtains or blinds over windows provides an additional barrier against pollen. Choose a tightly woven fabric, such as linen, to effectively keep pollen particles out."
4. Track your HVAC system
(Image credit: Getty Images/Prathan Chorruangsak)
"Regular care and maintenance of your HVAC system is important to prevent buildup, keep critical components clean, and provide your family with a healthy, pollen-free environment," says Tony Abate, vice president and chief technology officer at AtmosAir Solutions .
This means you need to make sure your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation filters are free of debris that could affect your spring allergies. We also have a guide on how often you should change your air filters so you know!
Tony Abate, a certified indoor environmentalist, is vice president and chief technology officer of AtmosAir Solutions. He specializes in the areas of HVAC, air quality testing and environmental analysis. His previous experience includes testing and designing air purification solutions for the US military, JP Morgan Chase, Norwegian cruise lines, school districts, professional sports teams and Fortune 500 companies.
5. Invest in an air purifier
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Invest in one of the best air purifiers (and air purifying plants ) to keep the air in your home fresh.
Place the air purifier in the rooms where you spend the most time," says Peter Mann, CEO and founder of Oransi . "Often this is a bedroom." Consider features like turning the device off completely to avoid interrupting your sleep.
Additionally, you should choose one with a HEPA filter, especially when pollen season is in full swing.
"HEPA filters capture smaller particles and pollen," adds Peter. "Make sure the air purifier has enough airflow for your room size. Pay attention to the CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) and coverage in relation to the room size. The CADR represents the amount of clean air the air purifier can produce. To view certified room coverage by model, visit the EnergyStar.gov website .
Peter Mann is CEO and founder of Virginia-based Oransi, a leading electric motor technology company with a clean energy mission known for its efficient, intuitive and reliable products for consumers, schools, organizations and businesses. He is also president of the Air Purifier Council of the Home Appliance Manufacturers Association.
6. Vacuum efficiently
(Image credit: Valeriy_G/Getty Images)
Yes, this is an important vacuum cleaner for preventing hay fever . So make sure you clean it properly and use a device with a HEPA filter. Take a look at the best vacuum cleaners you can buy in 2024 (robot, cordless, portable and more), all tried and tested.
7. Clean regularly
(Image credit: Carol Yepes/Getty Images)
While it's true that spring cleaning tips are hard to resist, don't limit yourself to seasonal dusting and mopping. Be sure to freshen the house regularly, especially if you have pets, as you are likely to bring home pollen every time you leave the house.
Now that the indoor situation has been resolved, you can prepare to spend more time outdoors. Home Depot's Spring 2024 Black Friday sale is here, and you'll want to take advantage of these great little backyard discounts before items sell out.
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