Fall is a beautiful season, but for many, it brings a wave of allergies as mold, dust, and pollen become more prevalent. If you're one of the millions affected by fall allergens, don’t worry—there are practical steps you can take to keep these irritants at bay. Here’s a guide to help you breathe easier this fall by reducing allergens through regular cleaning, maintenance, and smart home practices.
Adjust Your Watering Schedule Clean Air Filters and HVAC Systems Regularly
Your HVAC system plays a crucial role in maintaining indoor air quality. Over time, dust, mold spores, and pollen can accumulate in air filters and ducts. To reduce the number of allergens circulating in your home:
- Change air filters at least every 1-3 months, especially during the fall when allergens are high.
- Consider using HEPA filters, which are designed to capture small particles like pollen and dust mites.
- Clean air ducts annually or as needed to prevent mold and dust buildup. This is particularly important if you’ve noticed musty odors or increased allergy symptoms when the HVAC system is running. Contact A. Borrelli for all of your HVAC needs!
Control Humidity Level
Mold thrives in damp environments, making it essential to manage humidity inside your home. Ideal indoor humidity should be between 30% and 50%. To keep moisture in check:
- Use dehumidifiers in damp areas such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
- Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens properly by using exhaust fans when showering or cooking.
- Check for leaks around windows, doors, and pipes, as even small leaks can create the perfect conditions for mold growth.
Keep Windows Closed
While it’s tempting to open windows for fresh fall air, this can invite allergens like pollen and outdoor mold into your home. Instead:
- Use air conditioning to regulate temperature and keep windows closed during high pollen days.
- Check pollen forecasts and keep windows sealed on days when levels are high.
Clean Upholstery and Carpets Regularly
Upholstery and carpets can trap allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. Regular cleaning can significantly reduce these allergens:
- Vacuum with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner at least twice a week. Standard vacuums can often stir up dust, but HEPA filters trap more allergens.
- Steam clean carpets and rugs every few months to kill dust mites and remove pollen and mold spores.
- For easier cleaning, consider switching to hard flooring options like hardwood or tile, which don’t trap allergens as easily.
Declutter Your Living Space
Dust and allergens can collect on surfaces, in cluttered areas, and on knick-knacks. Keeping your home tidy helps minimize this:
- Regularly dust surfaces, using a damp cloth to trap particles rather than spreading them into the air.
- Reduce clutter, especially in bedrooms, to limit places where dust can accumulate.
- Store items in sealed containers rather than leaving them exposed on shelves.
Pay Attention to Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor allergens like fallen leaves, mold, and pollen can easily make their way indoors. To keep them from hitching a ride:
- Rake and dispose of leaves promptly, as damp piles can harbor mold.
- Keep shoes outside or in a designated entry area to prevent tracking outdoor allergens into your living spaces.
- Wipe down pets after they’ve been outside, as their fur can carry pollen and dust back inside.
Check for Mold in Hidden Areas
Mold can grow in areas you might not see right away, like behind furniture, under sinks, or in crawl spaces. Regular inspections can help prevent mold-related allergies:
- Look for signs of moisture or water damage and address the source of leaks or dampness.
- Use mold-resistant paint in bathrooms and other areas prone to moisture buildup.
- If you find mold, clean it immediately using a mixture of water and vinegar or a commercial mold remover, and wear a mask and gloves during cleanup.