Living Well in the Garden State: Clean Sweep

by Ashley V. Neglia   
Posted February 20, 2008

March kicks off allergy season. Roll up your sleeves for a serious spring cleaning to reduce irritants. Middletown allergy, asthma, and immunology specialist Dr. Ellen R. Sher explains.

Nose Guard

Reduce clutter. Stuff lying around gathers not only dust but
irritating allergens.

Remove old books especially vintage editions from crowded rooms. Old paper attracts mold.

Put hypoallergenic casings on mattresses, pillows, and box springs.

Wash sheets and blankets in hot water once a week to kill dustmites. Minimize children’s exposure to allergens by washing stuffed animals in hot water once a week.

Move furniture when you vacuum—dust gathers underneath. Vacuum more than once a week, and regularly wipe down hard surfaces with hot water.