Cleaning with Allergies: Tips for Reducing Your Exposure

​If you are an allergy sufferer who is planning a big cleaning task, you are likely dreading the chores that are going to cause an allergic reaction. Whether you are sensitive to chemicals or air pollutants (or a combination of the two), spring cleaning can be a challenging time for allergy sufferers. While it can be difficult, it is not impossible to avoid allergens during spring cleaning. If you are concerned about how to safely make it through, here are a few tips to follow for the best results. 

Use allergy-friendly cleaning supplies
Many common ingredients found in cleaning supplies can trigger allergic reactions. Ammonia, formaldehyde, and sodium lauryl sulphate are just a few chemicals that should be avoided if you suffer from allergies. When stocking up on cleaning products for your spring chores, choose cleaners made from all-natural ingredients. Prefer to make DIY cleaning supplies? Most surfaces can be cleaned effectively by using ingredients you can find at home, such as lemon, water, vinegar, and natural dish soap.

Ensure proper ventilation and filters
Do airborne allergens cause problems for you? If so, the dust and other allergens released into the air while cleaning can be too much for some individuals to handle. To ensure that these airborne allergens are reduced as much as possible, open windows to allow them to escape. 

Outsource specific cleaning tasks
If your allergies make you feel miserable, it might be time to outsource parts of your cleaning. Ask a family member or friend to complete the cleaning tasks that most aggravate your allergies. While the cleaning project is being performed, leave the house for a few hours. 

Since you won’t be able to avoid cleaning your home, it is best to create a plan of attack for battling your spring cleaning allergies. Depending on the type(s) of allergies you experience, follow the strategies that apply to your situation. And don't forget to take any allergy medication that has been recommended or prescribed either. With a bit of planning and preparation, it is possible to avoid allergens during your spring cleaning.