With the arrival of spring, we traditionally focus on three things: the festivities of Easter, the anticipated April showers, and of course, the ritual of spring cleaning. As the season’s shift invites an explosion of floral blooms and encourages more outdoor activities, it also triggers a surge in allergens such as pollen and pet dander, which disperse even more rapidly than they usually would.

Keeping your health and indoor air quality in mind, here are five spring cleaning suggestions to aid in getting rid of mold, mildew, and other unwelcome allergens from your home.

Cleaning Tip #1: Choose the Right Cleaning Tools

The effectiveness of your spring cleaning heavily depends on the quality of your cleaning tools and supplies. Use disinfectant sprays capable of neutralizing harmful pathogens, fungi, and bacteria as these products also inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Employ a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter, which works to capture smaller allergens. Pay special attention to areas like the kitchen and bathroom where mold and mildew are more likely to grow due to the moist conditions and high humidity levels.

Cleaning Tip #2: Use a Dehumidifier in Your Home

We suggest using a dehumidifier in your home since mold spores and mildew flourish in damp and humid conditions. Dehumidifiers help moderate the humidity level, making the living space more comfortable and breathable. Besides, they can also combat musty odors.

Cleaning Tip #3: Invest in a Room Air Purifier

While shopping for a dehumidifier, remember to invest in an air purifier too. These devices, often referred to as air cleaners, filter out airborne contaminants such as pollen, pet dander, dust, smoke, and mold spores, enhancing the quality of the air in your living space. Air purifiers are particularly beneficial for those suffering from allergies or asthma, but everyone can appreciate the improved air quality they provide. For guidance on the best available air purifiers, refer to Consumer Report’s list of the best air purifiers.

Cleaning Tip #4: Consider Hardwood Floors Instead of Carpet

While not a weekend project, those with allergies should seriously consider replacing carpets with hardwood floors. Carpets can become reservoirs for various allergens, with each step across the carpet potentially reintroducing dust, pollen, and pet dander into your living space, and consequently deteriorating the indoor air quality. Hardwood floors, in contrast, not only significantly mitigate indoor allergens but are also easier to maintain and clean.

Cleaning Tip #5: Keep Unwanted Allergens Outdoors

Despite being ubiquitous in the environment, allergens like dust, pollen, and mold spores can infiltrate our homes. Strategically placing doormats at all entrances and encouraging guests to remove their shoes can significantly reduce the influx of outdoor allergens. Regular cleaning, at least once a week, can also help manage any allergens that do find their way in.

Concerned About Potential Mold? Get a free mold inspection!

Mold can sometimes stubbornly persist or hide in hard-to-access areas of your home like attic insulation or behind basement walls. If you notice persistent traces of mold or mildew, or encounter a persistent musty odor in your home even after thorough spring cleaning, don’t hesitate to contact our mold removal experts at 911 Restoration for a complimentary visual mold inspection (for property owners only)!