Spring arrives this week, and while many of us are looking forward to the warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, for those with seasonal allergies, springtime can present some challenges. It’s estimated that nasal allergies affect around 50 million people in the United States, and spring is one of the worst seasons for those sufferers. The budding trees, sprouting grass and weeds release pollen into the air to fertilize other plants, and when you’re enjoying the fresh air through open windows at long last, you might even notice this pollen coating all the surfaces of your home.

5 Spring Cleaning Tips for a Greener Home

Spring cleaning has been going on for hundreds of years, dating as far back as the Middle Ages when the changing of the seasons represented a time to open up the home and sweep out all the dust and ash that collected over the winter. Today, spring cleaning usually involves thoroughly tackling high-traffic areas, getting rid of clutter and organizing, or even home remodeling projects.

If you or someone in your family has allergies, however, it’s important to think of spring cleaning as an opportunity to improve the indoor air quality of your home to get some much-needed relief. And, many of the cleaning products available today are full of toxic chemicals and fragrances that may further exacerbate allergies. Make a few simple, green cleaning adjustments to your spring cleaning routine to allow everyone to breathe easier.

Here are five green spring cleaning tips to keep in mind before you get started with your projects this year:

1. Schedule air duct cleaning. Over time, the air ducts throughout your home can get contaminated with dust, pollen, dirt, animal dander and other debris that has a negative effect on your health, even if you aren’t an allergy sufferer. This is why it’s important to schedule an air duct cleaning that will improve ventilation in the ductwork, and thus, improve your home’s indoor air quality.
2. Use steam and natural products. Steam and natural cleaning products work just as well as their conventional counterparts when it comes to thoroughly cleansing your home. Consider a vapor steam cleaner, and go the DIY route when it comes to your cleaning products. For instance, distilled white vinegar, baking soda, Borax, and essential oils can all be utilized to give your home a green spring cleaning.
3. Eliminate dust – everywhere. Your vacuum will come in handy as you spring clean this year. You probably regularly use the vacuum to keep your carpets and rugs clean, but you can also use it to get rid of dust built up along your baseboards, crown molding and ceiling fans by utilizing those handy attachments.
4. Get your carpets professionally cleaned. Speaking of your carpets, when was the last time you had them professionally cleaned? If it’s been a while, it’s time to call in the pros. Dust, pollen, dirt and other contaminants get trapped in the fibers of your carpets and rugs, and regular vacuuming may not be enough to remove them after they’ve been building up for years. It’s clear to see how this can negatively affect indoor air quality – every time you take a step, you’re releasing those contaminants into the air.
5. Invest in some live plants. House plants are living air filters! Pick up some greenery like English ivy, bamboo palm, spider plants or tulips and place them in the rooms where you generally spend the most time. It’s a simple, inexpensive way to purify the air in your home.

If you would like to schedule an air duct cleaning this spring to improve the indoor air quality of your home, the team at Efficient Heating and Cooling is ready to help! If you’re in the greater Cleveland area, contact our team today! Or, give us a call at 216-663-6462.