Winter hibernation has ended and dirt and dust mites are out to play. To stop them, it’s time to do some spring cleaning. Here are some tips to clean those allergies away:

Clean Top to Bottom

When you stir up dirt while you are cleaning, make sure you’re not simply shifting it from one place to another. Start your spring cleaning with the highest spots and work your way down. This way, dirt from the cabinets or cobwebs from ceiling corners falls on the floor rather than resettling elsewhere. Save your floors for last.

Ensure the Air is Clean

Change air filters and sheets regularly, and vacuum both carpets and rugs with a cyclonic vacuum or a vacuum with a HEPA filter. When you dust, use a cloth dampened with water, furniture polish, or dusting liquid. When you use a dry cloth, it is less effective as it tends to scatter more dust particles.

Limit Moisture

Mold is a common indoor allergen that relies upon moisture to grow. Clean up spills and standing water as quickly as possible. It’s important to use your bathroom fans both during and after a shower or bath. Use detergent, water, and elbow grease to scrub away any visible mold on surfaces and make sure these surfaces are fully dried.

Keep Windows Closed

While it’s tempting to throw every window open when the weather gets nice, doing so is an invitation for allergens to invade your home. Keep them outside by using natural and organic air fresheners like lemons or mint leaves. Don’t forget to use gloves or masks when mowing or gardening, and wash your hands, hair, and clothing after spending a lot of time outside.

Keep Your Pets Groomed

Not only does grooming keep your furry friend healthy and clean, but it keeps dander under control. It’s always a good idea to keep the pets out of the bedroom if you have allergies as well. If your critters are caged, such as hamsters or guinea pigs, don’t forget to alternate their bedding frequently. Store litter and hay in tightly sealed bags or containers to prevent them from activating your reactions and wash upholstery regularly.

Clean and Protect Bedding

Nighttime allergy triggers can be reduced by keeping mattresses, box springs, quilts, comforters, and pillows in allergen-proof fabric or airtight plastic covers. You should change your bedding weekly and wash it and dry it on the highest temperature setting.

Clean Thoroughly, Not Often

When you are allergic to dust mites, it is better to deep clean once than to lightly clean more frequently. Use the attachments on your vacuum to better clean where dust mites and their droppings may collect, which include draperies, mattresses, and padded furniture.

Reorganize and Renovate

Temporarily rearranging your furniture can help you clean hard-to-reach places and areas that have previously been neglected. Also, if you have wall-to-wall carpeting, it might be time to consider removing it and replacing it with vinyl, tile, laminate, or wood. In lieu of carpeting, you can use utilize rugs that can be regularly cleaned. Make sure to seal off any areas where cockroaches might sneak in and repair or change leaking fixtures and roofing to reduce moisture.

Reduce Clutter

Spring cleaning is a good time to donate, sell, or throw out items you no longer need or want. Knick knacks, storage boxes, and even extra clothes can collect dust and give dust mites more places to lurk. Too much clutter is also more difficult to clean around, so downsizing can help you with your spring cleaning and allergies.

Clean Stuffed Animals and Blankets

When you have children, it’s always wise to deep clean their stuffed animals and blankets. Stuffed animals and blankets can get dragged everywhere inside and outside, bringing along unwanted allergens, so be sure to wash those in hot water as well.