Ask Angi: How can I reduce allergens in my home?
Spring is in full bloom, but the warm weather also brings the official start of allergy season. While there isn't much you can do to prevent or avoid outdoor allergens, removing indoor irritants can go a long way in making the allergy season more manageable.
Pet dander, dust mites and mold are some of the most common home allergens, so it's important to clean your home thoroughly and regularly keep them at bay. Pay extra attention to areas that collect a lot of dust, like ceiling fans, vents and shelving.
If you don't have the time or ability to clean your home on a regular basis, bring in a professional cleaning service to do it for you. I recommend sharing your allergens (if you have identified them) with your cleaning service to make sure they know what to focus on. If you choose to clean your home yourself, consider wearing a mask to protect yourself from loose dust while cleaning.
You can also make a few upgrades to your home to make it easier to clean. Swap out carpets (which can trap allergens and be difficult to clean) for easy-to-clean hard floors. Dust mites thrive in bedding, so it's also a good idea to cover your mattress and make sure all of your bedding is easy to clean.
Having clean air filters is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to reduce allergens in your home. I recommend replacing your air filters at least once every three months to remove allergens and keep your air as clean as possible. You may need to replace them more often if you have pets, are particularly sensitive to allergens, or live in an area with a lot of pollen or other irritants. If you have a specific allergy trigger, look for an air filter that filters out that particular allergen. You can also give your air quality an extra boost by purchasing an air purifier or two and placing them in high-traffic areas in your home.
A lot of indoor allergens are actually tracked in from outside. An open window, your shoes, or even your clothing could bring in pollen or other outdoor irritants. If you're particularly sensitive to outdoor allergens, take your shoes off when entering your home and keep your windows closed during allergy season.
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