Spring has almost sprung. This can only mean one thing: allergies. (Kidding! Kind of). The upcoming season brings with it many delights. Pastels, florals, the unyielding hope for summer. But if you’re feeling a bit wary about the next few months and the sneezes it brings, we have some insight for achieving better air quality before spring. 

Opt for Fragrance-Free  If you’re prone to allergies, eliminate cleaning products with artificial fragrances. A simple way to do this is to opt for the classic water-lemon-vinegar concoction when cleaning surfaces. If scents are really your thing, supplement fragrance-free cleaning with natural wick candles, which emit lower fumes than alternative wicks.

Crack Open a Window

This one seems obvious, sure. But even on colder days, cracking open a window for just a few minutes can help circulate the air in your space. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, ventilation is the most effective way to improve the air quality indoors. They say, “to lower the concentrations of indoor air pollutants in your home… increase the amount of outdoor air coming indoors.” 

Choose Friendly Fabrics  Don’t wait until summer to take full advantage of linen! The natural flax fibers that make up our cozy linen bedsheets are breathable and perfect for the in-between temperatures that we face in the spring. What makes linen even better, though, are its anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic properties. Due to its breathability, linen absorbs less moisture over time and therefore fewer bacteria build-up.

Dust Regularly

Next time you’re running errands, pick up a new duster. Dusting regularly is an important part of the air-purifying routine. Hey, if you need to, you can even set a weekly reminder. If you’ve got hardwood floors, be sure you’re dusting them too. If not, pass the vacuum (especially if you have pets!) Keeping surfaces spotless high and low will lessen the microscopic bits circulating in your home and disrupting your deep breaths.

Purify with Plants Aside from their aesthetically pleasing presence, indoor plants provide great benefits. There have been debates far and wide about the magnitude of their purifying abilities. Whether a little or a lot, getting a plant definitely won’t hurt. Snake plants, in particular, are known to release tons of oxygen while also filtering out CO2, benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene– harmful toxins that trigger allergy symptoms.

Invest in an Air Purifier 

Lastly, of course, is to invest an air purifier. There are tons of different types of air purifiers, each with their own special features and range of affordability. Be sure to do your research beforehand so you can rest assured that you’re investing in the best model for your lifestyle. 

Whether you take on a few or all of the above tips, one thing is for certain: being proactive about improving your air quality will surely minimize the effect of those pesky spring allergies.