Between 10 and 30% of Americans suffer from hay fever during the Fall months, according to WebMD.
Most of these allergic reactions are caused by ragweed pollen. While it is virtually impossible to avoid ragweed completely, there are a few things you can do to reduce allergens in your home this Fall.
Seasonal Cleaning
Have your carpets cleaned at the beginning of the Fall season to eliminate pollen and other allergens that have accumulated over the summer months. If you’ve kept your windows open to enjoy the warm weather, chances are good that microscopic grains of pollen have also wafted in. Be sure to hire a reputable carpet cleaning company, such as ServiceMaster of North Texas, and let them know that you are concerned about allergies. Ask about hypoallergenic cleaning methods.
Check your HVAC system every three months, and replace dirty filters with HEPA filters. These trap many airborne allergens, including dust and mold spores, which can spread through your home via air ducts.
Regular Maintenance to Reduce Allergens
Weekly and daily maintenance can make a big difference when it comes to keeping allergies under control. Vacuum high-traffic areas daily, especially if you have pets. Clean the filter on your vacuum cleaner each time you use it to avoid releasing dirt back into your home.
Do a deep cleaning weekly. Vacuum the upholstery and draperies in your home, and clean under furniture. This is especially important if you have cats or small dogs that like to hide under beds or other larger pieces of furniture.
Prevent Allergens From Accumulating in Your Home
While you cannot prevent all allergens from entering your home, there are things you can do to make your home less habitable to certain types of irritants. Check your basement, attic, laundry room, and bathrooms for excess moisture that could lead to mold growth.
Remove shoes and coats when you come in from outdoors. This will help stop the spread of pollen, dust, and other allergens inside your home, and will keep your carpets cleaner too.
