The holidays are near, and people across the country are gearing up for a sneezy winter. Being inside with the heat all winter can really take a toll on those with allergies. Luckily, if you start preparing now, you enjoy an allergy-free holiday season.
- Get Rid of Dust
Dust particles are tiny, but pack quite a punch when it comes to allergies. Around the holidays, people tend to start bringing down decorations from the attic, which can kick up dust that has been settling for months. At the beginning of the season, you should replace all air filters in your home, so that your HVAC system can easily filter out the dust and allergen particles.
You should also start vacuuming more often to keep allergens from building up. This is especially important if you have dogs, as their hair can collect dust or even aggravate allergies on their own. Consider washing your bedding in hot water at least every two weeks, as well, to minimize dust and dander.
- Seasonal Plants
The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without Christmas trees and wreaths – but did you know that live foliage collects mold and mildew spores? If your allergies are bad enough, you should consider purchasing artificial trees and wreaths. Just make sure you wipe them down before and after each season and store in a dry area to prevent dust and mold buildup.
For some, having a real tree is a deal-breaker. Luckily, there are still ways you can minimize the effects it can have on your allergies. Before bringing any foliage inside your house, hose it down to wash off mold spores. Keep the area around it clean of fallen leaves and dust, and keep an eye out on the water in the Christmas tree stands to make sure no mold is forming.
- Deep Clean
If you’ve taken the proper precautions but still feel sneezy, consider doing a deep clean of your entire house. Carpets and rugs need to be shampooed and vacuumed, any areas that attract moisture should be carefully cleaned, and hard-to-reach areas need to be dusted. You may even want to hire professionals, a professional carpet cleaning service has the necessary tools and time during a busy holiday season.
Even if you don’t have allergies, you should take these tips into consideration if you plan on inviting guests over. Taking a little extra time out of your schedule now to prepare for the winter will allow you and your guests to enjoy a clean, allergy-free environment this holiday season.
ATR011122