Cleaning the dust, mold and grime that have accumulated over the winter can help everyone breathe better and avoid the sneezing and wheezing that come from spring allergies.
"Even the cleanest of houses can use spring cleaning to start fresh and get rid of allergens that have built up over the winter," says allergist James Tracy, DO, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "Allergy season can last all year for those who deal with indoor allergens, but it can be worse in spring when pollen becomes a factor. Getting rid of all types of allergens helps you cut down on symptoms."
An Allergy-Friendly Environment
Below are five tips from ACAAI to keep in mind as you ponder the most effective routes to a clean, allergy-friendly environment.
Follow the water trail – Bathrooms, basements and tiled areas are especially prone to mold. To get rid of mold you must control moisture. Clean up any standing water, and use bathroom fans to bring down humidity, which should be below 60%. Scrub away visible mold from surfaces with detergent and water, and completely dry the cleaned area.
Keep cleaning supplies simple – Although you may not have an allergy to cleaning solutions, they can irritate your sinuses and cause skin rashes and difficulty breathing. You can try wearing gloves and a face mask when you clean, but you might also be better off using a homemade solution of baking soda and vinegar. It's an effective cleaner and won't cause the same level of irritation as chemical cleaners.
A bath for Fido may be in order – Pet allergens – both dog and cat – can build up over the winter and be hard to avoid. Because the chances are good that fur, saliva and dander are present and affecting your allergies, a deep clean may be in order. Vacuuming frequently and washing upholstery, especially your pet's bed, can be a solution. Try to keep your pet out of the bedroom to help you sleep symptom-free. A professional deep-cleaning of your carpets may also help cut down pet hair and dander, along with dust mites.
Don't open the windows to "freshen up" – Although the temptation is strong in spring to open the windows to bring in a clean breeze, keep your windows closed in your home and car. Open windows can bring in unwanted pollen particles, causing sneezing and wheezing despite your efforts at spring cleaning. Change your air filters every three months and use filters with a MERV rating of 11 or 12. Using a cyclonic vacuum helps spin dust and dirt away from the floor.
Cleaning outside can help too – Although much of your spring cleaning will focus indoors, it doesn't hurt to put outdoor precautions in place. When mowing, gardening, and cleaning winter residue, be sure to wear gloves and an N95 mask. Mold can be present in flower gardens, gutters and outdoor sheds, so keep those in mind as you prep your outdoor space. Check pollen levels as they can be especially high in spring. Taking your allergy meds before you head outside can be especially beneficial.
Despite your best cleaning efforts to reduce allergens in your home, allergy symptoms can still be problematic. See an allergist if your symptoms don't seem to be under control, and are holding you back from living your best life. For more information about seasonal allergies and to locate an allergist, visit AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.
Source: American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. 6-Mar-2025. "Spring Cleaning: Spruce up Your House While Toning Down Allergies." AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org
