As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, fall brings with it a sense of renewal and transformation. It’s the perfect time to embrace the season by giving your home a thorough cleaning. Not only will this create a cosy and inviting atmosphere, but it can also help combat fall allergies. In this article, we’ll explore a range of DIY cleaning practices for the fall season, with a focus on creating a clean and allergen-free home.
1. Dusting and Vacuuming
Fall allergies often stem from an increase in indoor allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. To combat these allergens effectively:
- Dust Regularly: Dust surfaces throughout your home using a microfiber cloth or a damp cloth. Pay attention to often-overlooked areas like ceiling fan blades and light fixtures. Dusting not only keeps allergens at bay but also adds a fresh, clean look to your living spaces.
- Vacuum Thoroughly: Invest in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap tiny allergen particles. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery regularly, and don’t forget to vacuum under furniture and in corners. Regular vacuuming not only removes allergens but also extends the life of your flooring and upholstery.
2. Cleaning Bedding and Linens
Your bedroom should be a sanctuary of clean air and restful sleep. Here’s how to make it allergy-friendly:
- Wash Bedding Weekly: Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers in hot water weekly to eliminate dust mites and allergens. Consider allergen-proof covers for pillows and mattresses. Clean, allergen-free bedding ensures a comfortable and restorative night’s sleep.
- Clean Curtains and Drapes: Launder or dry-clean curtains and drapes to remove dust and pollen that may have settled on them during the summer months. Clean window treatments not only enhance indoor air quality but also contribute to the overall appearance of your home.
3. Decluttering and Organizing
A cluttered home can harbour dust and allergens. Take the opportunity to declutter and organize your living spaces:
- Fall Closet Cleanup: Rotate your seasonal clothing, and donate items you no longer need. Use airtight storage containers for off-season clothes to prevent dust accumulation. A well-organized closet not only reduces allergens but also simplifies your daily routine.
- Clear Countertops: Remove unnecessary items from countertops and surfaces. A clutter-free kitchen and living space are easier to clean and maintain. An organized living space enhances functionality and aesthetics.
4. Kitchen: The Heart of Allergy-Friendly Cooking
The kitchen can be a surprising source of allergens, especially during the fall when cooking and baking are in full swing. To maintain an allergen-free kitchen and ensure your culinary adventures are allergy-friendly, consider the following tips:
- Effective Ventilation: Ensure that any range hoods are properly vented to the outside. This helps remove cooking fumes and airborne particles that can trigger allergies. Proper ventilation not only promotes a healthy environment but also enhances your cooking experience.
- Clean Kitchen Surfaces: Wipe down kitchen countertops, cabinets, and appliances regularly with allergen-friendly cleaning products. Crumbs and food particles can attract pests and allergens.
- Regularly Clean the Refrigerator: Clean the refrigerator interior, shelves, and drawers on a regular basis. Discard expired or spoiled items to maintain a fresh and allergen-free environment.
5. Fall Cleaning Checklists
Creating a fall cleaning checklist can help you stay organized and ensure no area is overlooked:
- Outdoor Cleanup: Clear gutters, remove fallen leaves, and store outdoor furniture properly to prevent allergens from entering your home. A well-maintained outdoor space complements your clean indoor environment.
- Deep Cleaning: Schedule a deep cleaning session for your home, including carpets, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. Consider professional cleaning services for a thorough job. Deep cleaning not only eliminates allergens but also revitalizes the look and feel of your home.
- Seasonal Decor: When bringing out fall decorations, give them a good wipe-down to remove dust and allergens that may have settled during storage. Clean decorations contribute to a vibrant and allergy-free seasonal atmosphere.
6. Air Purifiers: Breathe Easier
Consider using HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) air purifiers in bedrooms and other frequently occupied rooms. These devices can be a powerful ally in your battle against indoor allergens. Here’s how to make the most of air purifiers:
- Choosing the Right Air Purifier: Select an air purifier that suits your room size and specific needs. HEPA filters are highly effective at trapping allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander. Look for purifiers with multiple filtration stages for optimal results.
- Proper Placement: Position the air purifier in the room where you spend the most time, especially the bedroom. Ensure that it has adequate airflow and is not obstructed by furniture or curtains. Regularly clean or replace the purifier’s filter as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Additional Benefits: Beyond allergy relief, air purifiers can improve overall indoor air quality, reduce odours, and create a fresh and healthful atmosphere. Some models also feature built-in sensors that monitor air quality in real-time.
7. Change HVAC Filters: Fresh Air Flow
Your home’s HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system can play a significant role in allergen circulation. Regularly changing HVAC filters can make a big difference:
- Frequency Matters: Replace your HVAC system’s air filters every one to three months, depending on your system and filter type. Clean filters ensure that your heating and cooling system operates efficiently and doesn’t circulate allergens throughout your home.
- Choosing the Right Filter: Select air filters with a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating that matches your needs. Higher MERV ratings capture smaller particles but may need more frequent replacement. Consult your HVAC system’s manual for filter recommendations.
- Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling annual professional HVAC maintenance to ensure your system is clean and operating at peak efficiency. Well-maintained systems not only reduce allergen circulation but also save on energy costs.
8. Pet Grooming and Cleaning: Furry Friends, Fresh Spaces
If you have pets, their fur can be a source of allergens. Keeping your pets clean and addressing their bedding and toys is essential for maintaining an allergy-friendly home:
- Regular Grooming: Establish a routine for grooming your pets. Brushing them regularly helps remove loose fur and reduces shedding. Consider professional grooming services for long-haired pets.
- Wash Pet Bedding: Wash your pet’s bedding and toys regularly to eliminate allergens. Use hot water and hypoallergenic detergent to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Vacuum with Pet-Friendly Tools: Invest in a vacuum cleaner with pet-specific attachments. These tools are designed to effectively remove pet hair and dander from carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding.
- Allergen-Reducing Products: Consider using allergen-reducing products designed for pet owners, such as allergen-neutralizing sprays and wipes. These products can help maintain a fresh and allergen-free environment.
As you embrace the beauty of the fall season, remember that a clean and allergen-free home can significantly enhance your well-being. By following these DIY cleaning practices, you’ll not only create a more comfortable living environment but also reduce the risk of fall allergies. From dusting and vacuuming to maintaining an allergy-friendly kitchen, each step contributes to a healthier and more enjoyable fall season. So, roll up your sleeves, put on your favourite autumn playlist, and let your home shine with the warmth of the season.
Jennifer Bell is a fall enthusiast, allergy sufferer, and a writer for range hood companies in the Philadelphia area.
I suddenly feel a bit of a housekeeping failure! Reminders like these are always a welcome nudge, though. Someone once suggested that cushion and pillow inners should be hung on the line on baking hot days to eliminate dust mites. It sounded like a good idea so I’ve done that for years. I also put out blankets, duvets and almost anything that I can hang on the line.
I have a lot of allergies and these cleaning practices do help me to keep my allergy symptoms at bay.