Spring Has Sprung, Here Comes The Pollen

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

We are passing the middle of spring right now which means that it's officially prime time for pollen allergies.  In honor of this righteous timing, let's go over a few ways to rid your home of pollen.  But first, here's some fun facts about pollen that you may not have known.

Fun Facts About Pollen

• Pollen is the snowflake of spring.  It comes in many different shapes, sizes, and colors.  Though we associate pollen with the color yellow, it can also be a vibrant red, green, purple, white, or brown.
• Flowering plants aren't the main culprit when it comes to pollen allergies.  Flower pollen is transferred through insects that carry it from flower to flower.  This tends to keep the pollen more contained compared to plants that transfer pollen by releasing it into the air such as ragweed, oak, elms, and maple trees. 
• We tend to think that bumble bees are the only carrier of pollen, However, insects such as butterflies, ants, beetles, and flies are also common pollen carriers.  Mammals, such as lemurs, are also pollen carriers.

Source:thoughtco.com

Now that we've covered a few fun facts about pollen, lets dig into allergy control.  Pollen spreads like wildfire and while there is no sure way to completely prevent pollen allergies, there are a few ways that you can keep them under control.

How To Reduce Pollen Allergies at Home

• Dust smart.  As mentioned before, pollen spreads like wildfire.  The most effective way to control pollen through dusting is to use a microfiber towel or duster and dust from top to bottom.
• Change your air filters.  Changing your air filters regularly, especially when you notice your allergies kicking in, is another effective way to control pollen allergies.  Air filters get packed with dust, hair, and other common allergens that may make your seasonal allergies worse.  Investing in a filter that is made to catch common allergens may also help in this situation.
• Washing your pillow cases.  Pollen can get caught in your hair and your clothes as soon as you step inside.  If you lay down for a nap as soon as you come home from work, there may be pollen stuck to your bedding and pillow cases.  
• Splurge on the right vacuum cleaner.   Vacuums are expensive, I know, but investing in a good one may be worth it.  A decent vacuum will automatically filter pollen and dust to ensure that it doesn't get spit back into the house.  Professionals recommend a bag-less vacuum with a HEPA filter.

Source:cedars-sinai.org

These are a few tips to help you keep your home comfortable even through allergy season.  If you need help cleaning your filters, air vents, drapes, carpets, or anything else that may house allergens, we are more than willing to help!  Our team is IICRC certified and experienced in general cleaning needs.  Give us a call at 817-596-8714