5 Common Sense Ideas for Seasonal Allergies
Seasonal allergies make us feel truly miserable, and as pollen counts continue to skyrocket, there appears to be no end in sight to our suffering. Below are some common sense, no-nonsense ideas to help you and yours find a little relief this summer. And while of course we recommend using natural and organic products without harsh chemicals or fragrances, these steps are really all about getting you and your house ready for spring and summer allergies.
- Use Pollen Filters
- Fresh air is important in the home, but it also ushers in outdoor dust and pollen. You can reduce the amount of pollen and dust in your home by installing pollen filters in your windows and air intake vents (if you use air conditioning). There are some amazing solutions for windows designed specifically for this purpose. The options range from simply placing pollen filter screens over your current window screens as well as completely replacing the mesh in your window screens with pollen and dust filtering mesh.
- Take off your shoes
- Your shoes can track all sorts of things into your home– including allergens–so be sure to remove them when indoors. Also, remember to clean your floors and carpets often. Allergens can become trapped in carpet fibers and we’ve all seen dust bunnies running across our wood floors. Clean floors and remove shoes to help keep allergens outside so you can be comfortable inside. Don’t forget to change the filter in your vacuum cleaner, too.
- Save the outdoor fun for afternoon and evening
- Pollen counts tend to be highest in the morning hours so save those outdoor activities for afternoon or evening hours.
- Cleanse hair and skin before bed
- This helps to wash away allergens and keep them out of your bed and off your pillows. Use a gentle, unscented cleanser and follow with your favorite lotion to help keep your hair and skin looking and feeling its best.
- Wash bedding frequently with hot water
- Sheets and pillow cases especially harbor dead skin cells and bacteria. Wash your bedding weekly or biweekly. For frequent washing, try a gentle, non-irritating laundry soap without harsh chemicals, fragrance oils or fillers.
Taking small steps to rid your house of dust and pollen may make a big difference in alleviating allergy symptoms in the long run. How do you ready your home for allergy season?
