Spring Cleaning without the Sneezing

Ah, spring! A time when we can open the windows, breathe in the fresh Texas air, and AAA—AAAH- ACHOOO! Sneeze. If it’s time for spring cleaning at your house but you’re prone to allergies, you may be dreading it. However, we’ve got a few simple tips for you so that you can enjoy spring cleaning without the sneezing.

Why does spring cleaning make us sneeze?

Spring cleaning can stir up dust, mold, and pet dander in your home. As you zoom around the house with the broom and mop you might also be breathing in lots of dust and dirt along the way.

Pollen is abundant in the spring and it gets tracked into your house easily. Every time you, kids, or pets come through the door, so does pollen. When you’re cleaning, that pollen gets stirred up just like dust and dander.

Finally, chemicals and perfumes in cleaning projects can exacerbate asthma and allergy symptoms for those sensitive to strong smells.

Wear protection when cleaning

A dust mask when your cleaning can make a huge difference. You’ll keep out lots of the dust and pollen simply by doing this one thing when you’re sweeping, dusting, and vacuuming.

Gloves can help too. Wearing gloves doesn’t just protect your hands from harsh chemicals, but it will protect your face and eyes as well. You’re much less likely to touch your face or rub your eye if you have gloves on. So, you not only keep your hands safe from harsh chemicals, you keep your eyes safe from irritations too.

Use a vacuum with a HEPA Filter

A vacuum with a HEPA filter is a must. It will capture allergens instead of allowing them to recirculate back into the air. Vacuum everything that you can, from area rugs and upholstered furniture to mattresses too.

Wash what you can

Wash what you can, as far as bedding, curtains, pillow cases, mattress covers, pet bedding and blankets. Use hot water to kill dust mites and ensure that your items come out fresh, clean and allergen-free. Be sure to use detergents that are free of scents and chemicals if those bother you or others in your home.

Choose cleaning products wisely

Sometimes cleaning products can do more harm than good. Those with particularly harsh chemicals or strongly scented products have the biggest impact. If you must use harsh cleaning products be sure to wear a mask and keep the area ventilated with an exhaust fan if possible. Opening a window can help, but that also can let in pollen.

The best option is to use safer products. You can clean many items and rooms in your home with just vinegar, baking soda, and a strong grease-fighting liquid dish detergent.

Hopefully these tips for spring cleaning without the sneezing will help you have a happier and less congested spring season!