How to Keep Fall Allergies Out of Your Home

Fall brings a new allergy season for many…

Fall often brings the arrival of a new season of trouble for allergy sufferers. The cool, often damp weather combined with the breakdown of fallen leaves and foliage leads to an increase in ragweed, mold, and dust mites.

Fall is usually associated with the end of most plant life, however, ragweed continues to release pollen well into fall. Locally, it can release its pollen well into November. Ragweed is a common culprit of fall allergies.

Freshly fallen leaves, as soon as they hit the ground, begin the process of decay. Any amount of precipitation that comes by will increase growth of another common fall allergy: mold. Mold can also grow in any damp places around or inside of the home. A cool day often leads people to open the windows to let fresh air into the home, which often carries mold spores into the home.

Dust mites do not do well in the cold. In order to avoid being stuck outside in cooler weather, they migrate into the warmth of many homes. With a warmer environment and plenty of places to hide such as rugs, upholstery, and carpets, dust mites often hide out inside of homes.

There are several simple methods to mitigate the influx of fall allergens that can drastically decrease discomfort for allergy sufferers. Regularly addressing the following steps will decrease allergens in the home.

Tip #1: Before turning on any heating units in the home, all vents and filters should be clean.

Fall is an important time to change out air filters, ensuring that the air pumped through the home is cleaned. This air passes through vents, which should be thoroughly cleaned to remove any hidden allergens. Be sure to use a certified HEPA filter to reduce allergens in your home.

Tip #2: Dust regularly, including using a dusting spray.

Wiping the dust away only pushes some of the dust–and dust mites–into the air. Using a dusting spray will contain and dispose of the dust rather than just pushing it around.

Tip #3: Wash all sheets and blankets weekly.

Bedding is not the only soft surface that can be cleaned. Throw pillow shams, blankets, and furniture covers all need to be washed as well.

Tip #4: Shower curtains must be kept clean & bathroom molds removed.

Because of frequent moisture build up in the bathroom, mold is often prone to grow inside of it. Regularly check and clean shower curtains, focusing on the bottom edges. Also be sure to keep your tub corners, under soap dishes, and the backside of shower doors clean and free from mold & mildew.

Tip #5: Vacuum as often as possible.

Frequent vacuuming is essential in mitigating allergies. The best type of vacuum for allergy sufferers is one outfitted with a HEPA filter to best contain allergens. Vacuums that are “bagged” vs “bag-less” are best. Bagged vacuum cleaners help alleviate allergen contamination when changing bags. Emptying bag-less vacuum holding tanks spreads the contaminants back into the air.

Tip #6: Have all carpets, rugs, and upholstery cleaned professionally.

Allergens stick well beyond the reach of regular home cleaning. Carpets & Upholstery should be cleaned using truck mounted extraction, “green non-toxic” cleaning solutions, and remove all residues before sealing your home up for winter.

Tip #6: Have your HVAC duct system professionally cleaned if it has been more than 5 years.

Having you duct system properly cleaned has been shown to drastically reduce indoor dust & allergens.

Contact True North to schedule a thorough fall cleaning, keeping ahead of fall allergies and ensuring a comfortable, healthy home.

Call with any questions: 360-223-0330

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