Summer will soon be here, and with it, sunny skies, backyard barbecues and gardens in full bloom… what’s not to love?
If, like so many people, you experience seasonal allergies, the season we wait for all year could bring some added challenges.
While spring is on the radar for peak allergy times, in fact, summer brings the season of pollination for grass and weeds. Dust mites also peak during summer heat and who can resist playing with pets in the great outdoors on a nice day?
The good news is that in addition to personal allergy care, such as antihistamines, some basic steps around the home can help minimize the impacts of allergies – meaning you can get back to enjoying summer!
Here are 6 simple steps from the professionals at COIT to get your home ready for summer allergy season:
- Dust and vacuum more often – Dust and vacuum twice a week to keep pesky dust and pollen particles out of the air. Hard flooring will hold less irritants than carpet. Also, consider decluttering. The less surfaces dust can stick to, the happier you’ll be.
- Clean area rugs, drapes, and upholstery – Don’t let dust build up on rugs, drapes and upholstery, which hold more allergens than hard surfaces and blinds. Vacuum regularly and get area rugs, drapes, and upholstery professionally cleaned to remove dust, mould and mite buildup.
- Get air ducts cleaned – Schedule regular air duct cleanings, so that ducts remain clear of mould spores, pollen, and other allergens that can get re-circulated through the home. Over time, these contaminants can build up inside your ductwork, making the system a breeding ground for mould spores, bacteria, fungus, mildew,and other microbes. COIT recommends having your air ducts cleaned every two to three years.
- Change air filters regularly – Clean air filter are essential to keep your HVAC system running efficiently and helps keep air ducts clear between regular cleanings. Change filters according to manufacturer’s instructions, typically between 30 and 60 days, with additional considerations such as pets and traffic.
- Pay attention to pets – Bath pets every week or two to minimize dander and remove any pollen that’s stuck to their fur when playing outdoors.
- Manage humidity – Fix leaking pipes and maintain proper ventilation for kitchens, bathrooms and basements to avoid mould growth. Use a dehumidifier if it’s especially humid in your area.
When more allergy prevention help is needed
If despite your best allergy-prevention cleaning, is not quite enough and more help is needed – or maybe you’d simply rather be enjoying the summer weather – leave it to the experts and call COIT!
COIT Cleaning and Restoration Services’ trained technicians offer professional deep clean services, including steps to reduce the level of allergens in the home. Learn more at coit.ca or call COIT in Nanaimo at