How to Allergy-Proof Your Home This Spring

Eight ways to keep the spring sniffles away.

Spring is arguably one of the best times of the year – the flowers are starting to bloom, the weather is getting warmer, and summer is only a few months away! But, for those who fall victim to a nasty bout of hay fever and allergies every time spring rolls around, it's no surprise it's their most dreaded season.

While we can’t guarantee a hypoallergenic home for the duration of spring, taking time to complete these steps in your home will significantly reduce the severity of hay fever and seasonal allergy symptoms.

Ahead are eight tips that will help you allergy-proof your home so you can enjoy the beauty of spring.

1. Vacuum frequently

One of the best ways to reduce the amount of pollen and dust in your home is to stay on top of the vacuum cleaning. Try to vacuum your home at least every three days to keep dust and pollen at bay.

2. Avoid dusting

While it may seem like they do the same job as a vacuum, a feather duster is one of the worst things you can use if you suffer from hay fever or allergies. The duster pushes the pollen and debris off your surfaces and releases them into the air you breathe, causing your symptoms to flare up. If you want to remove dust and debris off tabletops and other surfaces, wipe them with a damp cloth or paper towel instead

3. Keep open windows and doors to a minimum

Nothing beats the feeling of a fresh breeze, but if that means having all of the dust and pollen that comes with it – we’ll politely decline. When you’re at home, try to keep windows and doors closed or slightly ajar, as this will keep debris from the outside entering your home and flaring up your symptoms.

4. Reduce moisture around the home

Different areas of the home can harbour moisture long enough for it to become a problem for those who suffer from allergies and hay fever. Rooms such as the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry should all be dried off if they come into contact with condensation. If this moisture is left unattended it can result in mould which creates spores that exacerbate hay fever symptoms.

5. Use a dehumidifier

If you’re finding it hard to control moisture in your home, consider purchasing a dehumidifier. This will dry out the air and prevent mould from growing in wetter areas of the home i.e. the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry. If you find a 2-in-1 dehumidifier and air purifier, this will also clean the air that cycles through it, resulting in less pollen and debris in your home’s air.

6. Sleep in linen bedding

We spend a third of our lives in bed, so keeping your bedroom clean is crucial if you suffer from hay fever and/or allergies. One way you can reduce the likelihood of experiencing symptoms of hay fever in the evening and early morning is by investing in linen bedding. 100% French Flax Linen is extremely breathable and wicks away moisture which will prevent any debris buildup or mould growth.

Here are 10 fresh linen colour combinations to try this spring.

7. Wash sheets 1-2 times a week

While we’re on the topic of bedding, it’s important to wash your sheets frequently so dust and skin cell debris doesn’t build up on your sheets. If you have the time, washing your bedding twice a week will significantly reduce allergy and hay fever symptoms which flare up at night.

The same goes for any other draping fabrics used around the house e.g. tablecloths, and curtains.

8. Reduce clutter

As much as we love decorating our homes with lamps, plants, vases, and coffee table books, these creative forms of decor are some of the most common places for dust to accumulate in the home. If you can't keep up with wiping down your decor pieces every couple of days, we recommend clearing your surfaces of any clutter – or just for spring, at least.