Spring is here, and with it comes the promise of warmer days, blooming flowers, and the chance to give your home a much-needed refresh. But, for many Kettering residents, spring also marks the beginning of allergy season. Pollen, dust, and other allergens can affect indoor air quality, triggering sneezing, coughing, and other allergy symptoms.
At Outstanding Heating & Cooling, we believe that spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up — it’s about making your home healthier and more comfortable. This year, go beyond the usual dusting and decluttering. Use your spring cleaning routine as an opportunity for improving indoor air quality and allergy-proofing your space.
Here’s your comprehensive Spring 2025 cleaning checklist to help you allergy-proof your Kettering home and breathe easier.
1. Deep Clean Your Air Filters and HVAC System
Your HVAC system plays a major role in maintaining indoor air quality, but only if it’s clean and functioning properly. Air filters trap indoor air pollutants like dust, pollen, and other allergens, but over time they can become clogged, reducing airflow and efficiency. A dirty air filter can lead to poor indoor air quality and even exacerbate allergy symptoms.
- Replace or Clean Air Filters: If you haven’t already, replace your air filters before the start of the warmer months. Opt for high-efficiency filters designed to capture even the smallest allergens.
- Clean the Ducts: Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in your ducts. If it’s been a few years since you’ve had your ducts cleaned, schedule professional duct cleaning service to remove these contaminants.
- Schedule a Tune Up: We offer AC system maintenance to make sure your system is running at optimal energy efficiency and not circulating dust or allergens.
2. Vacuum and Clean Carpets Thoroughly
Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture can trap common indoor air pollutants and allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. These particles linger in your home, constantly circulating into the air you breathe. Regular vacuuming is essential, but for a truly allergy-proof home, deep cleaning is a must.
- Use a HEPA Vacuum: Invest in a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter, which can trap even the smallest particles.
- Shampoo Carpets: Have your carpets professionally cleaned or rent a carpet cleaner to remove allergens from deep within the fibers.
- Steam Clean Upholstery: Don’t forget your couches and chairs. Use a steam cleaner or hire a professional to clean these fabrics and eliminate any trapped allergens.
3. Wash Bedding, Curtains, and Other Fabrics
Dust mites thrive in places like bedding, curtains, and other fabric-covered furniture. During allergy season, it’s important to keep these areas as clean as possible to reduce the risk of allergens lingering in your home that increase indoor air pollution.
- Wash Bedding Regularly: Wash your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water every week to kill dust mites and remove allergens.
- Clean Curtains and Drapes: Many curtains can be machine washed, but if yours are dry clean only, consider taking them to the cleaners. Or, use a vacuum attachment to remove dust.
- Wash Stuffed Animals: If you have children’s toys or stuffed animals, be sure to wash them regularly or vacuum them to prevent allergen buildup.
4. Maintain Your Indoor Air Quality Equipment
If you want to make sure your indoor air quality equipment continues to work efficiently, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some important tasks to keep your whole-house air purifier and dehumidifier in good condition and capable of delivering better air quality within your indoor environment.
- Change Air Purifier Filters: Depending on the type of air purifier you have, replace the filters every 3 to 6 months. This ensures that the purifier is effectively removing dust, pollen, and other allergens from the air.
- Clean the Dehumidifier Reservoir: Empty and clean the water reservoir on your dehumidifier regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth. This will help maintain the unit’s energy efficiency and prevent any unpleasant odors.
5. Wash Windows and Clean Window Screens
Outdoor air pollutants like pollen tend to accumulate on windowsills, especially during allergy season. While you may be eager to open your windows to let in fresh outdoor air, doing so can also let in all those allergens. It’s important to clean your windows and window screens so they don’t contribute to your allergy problems.
- Clean Windowsills and Frames: Dust and pollen can build up on windowsills and frames. Wipe them down with a damp cloth to eliminate these outdoor air pollution particles.
- Wash Window Screens: Remove the screens and wash them with warm soapy water to remove any trapped pollen and dust.
6. Declutter Your Indoor Spaces
Spring cleaning is a great time to declutter your home and get rid of items that can trap allergens, worsening indoor air quality. Excess clutter can make it harder to clean thoroughly and can collect dust, pet dander, and other allergens.
- Clear Out Old Items: Go through your closets, cabinets, and drawers to donate or dispose of items you no longer need. Fewer items mean fewer places for dust to collect.
- Organize and Store Items Properly: Store seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, and other items in sealed containers to prevent dust buildup.
Professional Indoor Air Quality Solutions Make a Big Difference
Sometimes, a deep cleaning just isn’t enough to fully tackle your indoor air quality concerns. If you want to make sure your home is as allergy-proof as possible, reach out to the experts at Outstanding Heating & Cooling for indoor air quality solutions.
- Whole-Home Air Purification Systems: We can help you install a whole-home air purifier that works with your existing heating and air conditioning system.
- Duct Cleaning: If your ducts are clogged with allergens, we can perform professional duct cleaning to improve your air quality.
- Whole-Home Dehumidifiers: We can install a whole-home dehumidifier to help control excess moisture in your home. This helps prevent mold, mildew, and dust mites, all of which can contribute to poor indoor air quality.
Don’t Let Poor Air Quality Impact Your Home
Spring cleaning isn’t just about making your home look good; it’s about creating a healthier living environment, especially for those dealing with allergies. By following these tips to improve your indoor air quality, you can allergy-proof your Kettering home and enjoy a more comfortable, breathable space.
If you’re ready to take your spring cleaning to the next level, Outstanding Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our team of professionals can provide expert advice, maintenance, and indoor air quality solutions to ensure your home is allergy-free all year long.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about how we can help you achieve the clean, healthy home you deserve!
