Spring is almost here, and with the sunshine and flowers comes…allergies! From an increase in pollen to mold spores generated by the excessive humidity that we have in Tampa Bay, FL springtime allergies can take the fun out of the nice weather.
However, you can take steps to improve your home’s indoor air quality and minimize allergy symptoms. In this post, we’ll share Integrity’s top tips for managing allergens and enjoying the pleasant weather.
What are allergens?
How to Manage Pollen and Dust in Your Home
- Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen count days, typically during spring and fall. Use your air conditioner to cool your home and reduce humidity.
- Change your HVAC filters regularly. The frequency depends on your home’s usage and family size, but aim to replace them every 1-3 months.
- Use high-quality, allergy-grade air filters in your HVAC system to trap smaller particles and allergens.
- Vacuum frequently, at least once a week, using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. This will help capture dust, pollen, and other allergens from your floors and carpets.
- Minimize clutter and remove dust-collecting items like knick-knacks, magazines, and books from your living spaces.
- Opt for easy-to-clean flooring options, such as hardwood, tile, or linoleum, instead of wall-to-wall carpeting.
- Use allergen-resistant covers on your pillows and mattresses to minimize exposure to dust mites.
- Wash bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and blankets, in hot water (at least 130°F) once a week to kill dust mites.
- Maintain a relative humidity level between 30-50% in your home to discourage dust mite growth and mold spores.
- Consider investing in an air purifier with a HEPA filter to help remove airborne allergens from your indoor environment.
Common Allergens in Tampa Bay, FL:
- Pollen: Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds is a major allergen in the area, especially during spring and fall.
- Mold: High humidity levels in Tampa Bay can lead to mold growth, both indoors and outdoors.
- Dust mites: These microscopic pests thrive in warm, humid environments and are often found in bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture.
- Pet dander: Dander from cats, dogs, and other furry pets can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals.
Signs That Allergens Are Affecting Your Indoor Air Quality
The Importance of Indoor Air Quality
- Use air cleaners and filters to purify indoor air
- Ensure proper ventilation in indoor areas
- Minimize contact with indoor airborne allergens
Controlling Indoor Allergens
- Eliminate dust by avoiding wall-to-wall carpeting
- Allergen-resistant covers on pillows and mattresses
- Wash bedding weekly to kill dust mites
- Vacuum frequently using an allergy and asthma-friendly vacuum. At least once per week. Vacuuming reduces the atmospheric allergens in your home. However, a poor quality vacuum might actually make things worse, as they might just stir up dust and push small particles into the air.
- Deep clean carpets 1-2 times a year
- Wash pet bedding and toys often, and bathe and brush pets frequently to reduce pet dander
- Install air cleaners, dehumidifiers, and appropriate filters for your HVAC system
- Run your AC instead of opening windows to reduce pollen and mold
- Change HVAC filters regularly
- Replace air filters frequently
- Schedule seasonal HVAC system service
- Clean your ductwork
- Use air purifiers, dehumidifiers, or humidifiers as needed
- Have your indoor air quality evaluated
- Install special filters that trap smaller particles