As the weather warms up and spring arrives, it’s time to open up the windows, let fresh air inside, and do some spring cleaning. For allergy sufferers like me, spring cleaning can stir up dust and irritants that trigger sneezing, watery eyes, and other allergy symptoms. Thankfully, there are ways to spring clean safely using eco-friendly products and methods that reduce allergen exposure. Here’s how I spring clean my home while keeping my allergies under control.
Use Natural Cleaning Products
Conventional cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, chlorine, and formaldehyde that can aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms. I avoid these by using natural cleaning products without added fragrances, dyes, and other irritating ingredients. Some of my go-to natural cleaners include:
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Baking soda – This versatile staple tackles dirt, grease, and odors. I sprinkle it on surfaces before scrubbing or make a paste with water to scour tougher grime.
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White vinegar – With its acidic profile, vinegar disinfects and cuts through grease and soap scum. I fill a spray bottle with equal parts vinegar and water for an all-purpose cleaner.
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Castile soap – Plant-derived castile soap effectively cleans when diluted in water without toxic chemicals. A few drops in a spray bottle makes an effective surface cleaner.
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Hydrogen peroxide – The oxidizing properties in hydrogen peroxide make it a powerful disinfectant and stain remover. I use it sparingly since it can irritate lungs.
Using natural cleaners improves indoor air quality and prevents allergy flare ups when I’m cleaning. I make sure to open windows and run fans to keep rooms well ventilated too.
Dust and Vacuum Thoroughly
Dust mites thrive in carpets, upholstery, and bedding where they leave behind allergy-triggering particles. I remove dust and minimize mites by vacuuming and dusting thoroughly when spring cleaning.
To reach dirt and mites deep down, I vacuum carpets, drapes, furniture, mattresses, and other fabric surfaces. I use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap allergens inside the machine. For even deeper cleaning, I occasionally shampoo carpets and rugs too.
In between vacuuming, I dust hard surfaces frequently with a microfiber cloth. This lifts and traps dust so it doesn’t recirculate in the air. Any dusty décor or knick-knacks get hand washed or wiped down as well. Thorough and frequent dust removal keeps allergen levels low in my home.
Wash Bedding in Hot Water
Bedding collects sweat, skin cells, and other organic matter that feed dust mites and cause allergy flare ups. As part of my spring cleaning routine, I wash all bedding in hot water above 130°F to kill mites and remove allergens. This includes mattress covers, sheets, pillowcases, and blankets.
For pillows and comforters, I check the care labels and wash in the hottest water allowed. If they can’t be washed, I have them professionally deep cleaned. Encasings are another option to seal in mites and allergens. After washing and drying thoroughly, I store bedding in airtight containers to prevent dust build up. With clean bedding, I breathe easier at night without allergy issues.
Use a HEPA Air Purifier
While cleaning removes many allergens, air purifiers provide ongoing filtration to capture irritants like dust, pet dander, and pollen. I have HEPA air purifiers running in my bedroom, family room, and other main living areas to continually filter the air.
HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters are proven to remove up to 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, including most common allergens. This makes a big difference in reducing sneezing, coughing, and other allergy symptoms in my home. I make sure to change the HEPA filters every 3-6 months based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Clean filters keep the air purifiers running at peak efficiency.
Take Precautions When Cleaning Mold and Mildew
As a severe allergy sufferer, I take extra precautions when cleaning mold in my spring cleaning routine. Exposure to mold and mildew can cause nasal congestion, wheezing, and skin reactions in those with allergies.
For small areas of mold, I mix a spray solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Wearing gloves, a mask, and goggles, I spray the moldy area, let sit 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse. For larger areas, I hire a professional mold remediation company to contain and remove the mold safely. Promptly fixing any leaks prevents moisture accumulation and recurring mold issues.
By using natural cleaners and taking steps to reduce allergens and irritants, I can spring clean my home from top to bottom with minimal allergy suffering. An eco-friendly cleaning routine makes springtime fresh and enjoyable for everyone.
