Top tips on how to pollen-proof your home

While some of us welcome beautiful buds on trees, others approach springtime with trepidation

CREATE A POLLEN-FREE BEDROOM

Your bedroom should be free from the intrusion of pollen, so begin by keeping windows closed during high pollen seasons and use blackout curtains to act as a barrier against pollen infiltration

OPT FOR ALLERGY -FRIENDLY MATERIALS

Materials such as leather, vinyl and hardwood for furniture and flooring will reduce pollen retention, compared to fabric and carpets. Also choose washable curtains and blinds

STRATEGIC INDOOR GREENERY PLACEMENT

Think low-pollen indoor plants such as ferns, palms and orchids, as they produce minimal amounts of pollen compared to others, also strategically place these plants away from windows and doorways to minimise pollen intrusion

KEEP YOUR HOME AS CLEAN AS POSSIBLE

Everyday cleaning jobs to keep on top of include hoovering, carpet cleaning, cleaning windows and seals, cleaning hard floors and dusting regularly. Changing the way you dust and using a damp cloth instead of a feather duster will help collect more of the dirt and pollen – and stop this from filtering through the air

INVEST IN AIR CONDITIONING OR AIR PURIFIERS

Using air con means the air coming into your home is filtered from pollen particles, helping you breathe easier throughout hay fever season

KNOW WHEN TO AIR YOUR HOME

It can be difficult to know what time your allergens are the highest; however most flowers pollinate in the morning, between 5am and 9am, therefore it’s recommended to keep your windows closed at these times and rely on ventilation to keep the temperature down