How to spring clean without stirring up allergens

After being stuck indoors all winter long, spring is the perfect time for you to clean your home in preparation for the warmer months ahead. This well-intentioned cleaning may increase your allergen exposure and cause symptoms to flare up.

“Your house accumulates a lot of allergens in the winter since you are likely keeping the windows closed,” explains Erin Sinnaeve, an allergy nurse practitioner at Advocate Health Care. “This does protect you from outdoor allergens, but it also increases your indoor allergen exposure. Removing these indoor allergens each spring is important, but it’s also critical to clean in a way that doesn’t exacerbate the problem.”

Spring cleaning missteps:

Leaving excess water

It’s easy to get carried away and splash some water around while cleaning. If this occurs, make sure to dry these spots so they don’t become moldy. It’s also a good idea to use the bathroom fan to level out humidity levels.

If you notice mold in your house, make sure to scrub the spots with detergent and water, and dry thoroughly.

Not gearing up

Allergens become displaced into the air when you disturb them during the cleaning process. Wearing an N-95 mask, gloves and protective eye wear can minimize your exposure. This is especially handy if you notice a lot of dust or mold.

Using strong chemicals

Cleaning products can be just as effective without high levels of chemicals. For example, a baking soda and vinegar solution can be a lot more allergy- and asthma-friendly. Some chemical-based cleaning products can also cause rashes.

Opening the windows

The warmer outdoor temperatures are certainly a springtime perk; however, opening your windows during peak allergy season is asking for trouble. Allergens can enter your home through the window screens.

“If you want to freshen up the air inside your home, I recommend using an air purifier,” Sinnaeve says. “It’s also a good idea to make sure your air conditioner filter is changed often.”

Not vacuuming enough

Vacuuming your floors is a great start, but don’t forget all the other places that are hiding allergens. Common places for dust to gather include:

• Ceiling fans
• Couches
• Windowsills
• Mattresses
• Pillows
• Baseboards
• Stuffed animals

“Vacuuming shouldn’t just be a once-a-season cleaning activity,” Sinnaeve says. “Make vacuuming your home a regular chore so you can minimize allergens, especially if you have pets.”

Bringing the outdoors in

It can be tempting to show off your spotless counters with a vase of freshly picked flowers from your blossoming spring garden, but you might be bringing pollen and mold into your home too.

What to do if allergy symptoms still flare up

Even if you take precautions while cleaning, you still might end up with allergy symptoms, which include a runny nose, sneezing, red or itchy eyes, and a rash. Most people can manage their allergy symptoms from home using over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal steroids.

If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule an appointment with your health care provider who might recommend a prescription-strength allergy medication or a quick relief inhaler and long-term asthma control medication.

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