September 21, 2007 | Allergies, Cleaning tips

I’ve been reminded by hearing the dry cough-cough through the night down the hall in the kids’ rooms. And by that persistent little itch in my nose. That allergy season is making its debut. So to conquer the sniffles and other not-so-welcome nuisances of allergy season, here are some helpful tips:

• Sweep your entry ways. Whether it’s the garage or front door, make sure you’re not tracking in allergens from outside.
• Either give your door mats a good scrub, or get new ones if the current mats have seen better days. Those things aren’t just decorative - they serve a purpose. Let them do their job.
• Keep your windows closed in the mornings when allergens are most dense in the air. Open them up in the evening when they’ve settled, and let some outdoor air freshen your home.
• Vacuum, not sweep - if your floors don’t mind it. Sweeping can kick up dust particles into the air and irritate your airways.
• Make darn sure your filters are all clean, and all possible are HEPA. Don’t forget the vacuum bags and little handi-vac bags.
• Most places that sell essential oils have a blend called “Breathe Easy” or something similar. It’s usually a mix of eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, thyme and others and it really does help. Add a couple drops to your mop water, your humidifier, even the bathtub or shower floor. It works.
• Avoid dry dusting - it’ll kick up dust. When you’re ready to dust that light fixture or the blinds, spritz some lemon juice or even plain water onto your duster to make sure that dust clings to your duster, not your nose.
• Keep windows closed while you’re cleaning. Yes, this goes against conventional wisdom that says you have to let the chemicals dissipate - but that’s why we don’t use chemicals! The open windows let in a breeze that make all those little dust particles want to dance. Keep ‘em still - open your windows when you’re finished!
• Dairy products and sugary foods make it harder for your body to process germs and mucousy gunk. Limit them during allergy season to help your body fight what it needs to fight.

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