Everyone hopes for the holidays to be a time of celebrating and joy. Unfortunately, allergies will often try to wreck your holiday fun. Mold, which floats through the air like pollen, can be brought inside our homes on evergreen trees and wreaths. Dust mites can be even more irritating this time of year when the air gets damp and you unpack decorations that have been stored away in the attic or basement. Here are a few tips to help avoid allergies during the holidays for years to come.
Clean Holiday Decorations Before Using
Decor like ornaments, wreaths and snow globes that have been sitting in storage all year need to be cleaned before use. Plastic, metal, and glass ornaments should be wiped down with a soft dust cloth before hanging on the tree. Artificial wreaths and trees should be wiped down as well before bringing back into the house. Holiday themed linens, or blankets should be washed throughly with hot, soapy water.
Clean A Real Tree Before Bringing It Into The House
Before you leave the Christmas tree farm or lot, ask if they have a tree shaker that can remove pollen, dead needles or debris. You can also use a leaf blower if needed. You should also remove mold from the tree by wiping the trunk thoroughly with a solution of room temperature water and diluted bleach (1-part bleach to 20-parts water). Finally, let the tree dry completely before bringing it inside your home.
Filter Allergens From The Air
Using high performance filters (HEPA) in the central air system can remove dust, pollen, dander, and mold. Air purifiers can also provide a continuous supply of clean, allergen-free air in frequently occupied spaces.
Storing Artificial Trees and Decorations
When it's time to pack up the decorations, you can help prevent allergies next year by properly storing your artificial tree and holiday decorations. Use a dust cloth to wipe everything down to remove any new dust or debris. It's best to then use sealed plastic containers to store your decorations. Cardboard boxes should be avoided for storage. They encourage the growth of mold, mildew, and other allergens.
Lower Your Stress Level And Get More Rest
Stress can lower your resistance to allergens, and fatigue weakens the body’s defense against allergies, and other illnesses. While it may seem impossible at this time of year, proper rest gives your immune system a boost and the support it needs to protect your body.
To learn more about the allergy services at CornerStone Ear, Nose & Throat, or to schedule an appointment, call 704-752-7575.
Clean Holiday Decorations Before Using
Decor like ornaments, wreaths and snow globes that have been sitting in storage all year need to be cleaned before use. Plastic, metal, and glass ornaments should be wiped down with a soft dust cloth before hanging on the tree. Artificial wreaths and trees should be wiped down as well before bringing back into the house. Holiday themed linens, or blankets should be washed throughly with hot, soapy water.
Clean A Real Tree Before Bringing It Into The House
Before you leave the Christmas tree farm or lot, ask if they have a tree shaker that can remove pollen, dead needles or debris. You can also use a leaf blower if needed. You should also remove mold from the tree by wiping the trunk thoroughly with a solution of room temperature water and diluted bleach (1-part bleach to 20-parts water). Finally, let the tree dry completely before bringing it inside your home.
Filter Allergens From The Air
Using high performance filters (HEPA) in the central air system can remove dust, pollen, dander, and mold. Air purifiers can also provide a continuous supply of clean, allergen-free air in frequently occupied spaces.
Storing Artificial Trees and Decorations
When it's time to pack up the decorations, you can help prevent allergies next year by properly storing your artificial tree and holiday decorations. Use a dust cloth to wipe everything down to remove any new dust or debris. It's best to then use sealed plastic containers to store your decorations. Cardboard boxes should be avoided for storage. They encourage the growth of mold, mildew, and other allergens.
Lower Your Stress Level And Get More Rest
Stress can lower your resistance to allergens, and fatigue weakens the body’s defense against allergies, and other illnesses. While it may seem impossible at this time of year, proper rest gives your immune system a boost and the support it needs to protect your body.
To learn more about the allergy services at CornerStone Ear, Nose & Throat, or to schedule an appointment, call 704-752-7575.
