Spring Cleaning: Don’t Forget to Clean the Air Too

Apr 6

BY ELISE SILVER AND HEATHER RUSSELL

Spring is here, and that means it’s time to refresh our homes with a good deep clean! While dusting, vacuuming, and decluttering are all part of the process, one often overlooked aspect of spring cleaning is cleaning the air inside your home. Indoor air quality plays a huge role in your family’s health, and after months of closed windows during the winter, your home could use a fresh breath of air. Here’s how to tackle it!

1. Invest in an Air Purifier

Air purifiers help remove allergens, dust, and even airborne bacteria from your home. This is especially helpful if you have kids, pets, or family members with allergies or asthma. Look for an air purifier with a HEPA filter to trap even the smallest particles and keep your air as fresh as possible.

2. Change Your Air Filters

Your HVAC system works hard all year to keep your home comfortable, but it can’t do its job effectively if the filters are clogged with dust, pet dander, and allergens. Replacing or cleaning your air filters every one to three months can make a big difference in your home’s air quality and help your system run more efficiently.

3. Open Your Windows for Fresh Air (When Pollen is Low!)

Nothing beats the feeling of fresh spring air flowing through your home! However, in North Carolina, pollen levels are sky-high this time of year, coating everything in a yellow haze. If you or your family suffer from allergies, check the pollen count before opening your windows. On high pollen days, keep windows closed and rely on air purifiers and HVAC filters to keep indoor air clean. On lower pollen days, take advantage of the fresh air to circulate your home naturally.

4. Clean Your Vents and Ducts

Over time, dust and debris collect in air vents and ducts, recirculating through your home every time the heat or AC turns on. Take a moment to vacuum your vents and, if needed, schedule a professional duct cleaning to get rid of hidden dust buildup.

5. Add Some Air-Purifying Plants

Did you know some plants naturally clean the air? Adding peace lilies, snake plants, or spider plants to your home can help remove toxins while adding a touch of greenery. Plus, they look beautiful!

6. Swap Out Toxic Cleaning Products

Many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals that contribute to poor indoor air quality. Consider switching to natural, non-toxic cleaners or making your own with simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon. Not only are they safer, but they’re also budget-friendly!

7. Keep Pollen Outside

With the pollen count so high in North Carolina, keeping it outside is key! Here are some easy ways to minimize pollen in your home:

Take off shoes at the door to prevent tracking pollen inside.
Wipe down pets after outdoor playtime to remove pollen from their fur.
Shower and change clothes after spending time outside, especially on high-pollen days.
Vacuum and dust frequently to remove pollen that makes its way indoors.
Use a high-quality doormat to trap pollen before it gets inside.

8. Don’t Forget the Humidity Levels

Keeping your home’s humidity levels balanced (between 30-50%) can help prevent mold growth and reduce allergens in the air. Using a dehumidifier in damp areas and a humidifier in dry spaces can make a big difference in how fresh your home feels.

Breathe Easier This Spring

Spring cleaning isn’t just about making your home look great—it’s also about creating a healthier environment for your family. With North Carolina’s pollen in full force, taking these extra steps can help you breathe easier and keep allergens at bay. By focusing on air quality as part of your cleaning routine, you’ll be breathing easier and enjoying a fresher home in no time!

Happy cleaning!