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We’re all looking forward to spring when we can shed some layers and start to defrost. For some, however, spring brings a new set of problems: Allergies. Fortunately, the steps you take to maintain your hardwood floors are also going to prevent pollen from infiltrating your home. Make your home a safe space from Springtime allergens.

Keep pollen out

Once Spring rolls around the pollen count is going to flourish. For some, pollen is a wonderful natural effect that makes our landscape come alive with color and lush greenery. For others, it means stuffy noses and watery red eyes. Our homes are the one place that we can seek refuge from outdoor allergies. Keeping the pollen out of your home will give you a break from seasonal allergies.

Take off shoes and outerwear

Getting rid of pollen in the home
Take off shoes and outerwear to keep allergens out.

Keep an enclosed space for outerwear and footwear. Our coats, jackets, and shoes can track in a lot of pollen from the outdoors. You can keep the pollen contained by having a designated closet or enclosed space by the front and back door so that you don’t carry a bunch of allergens inside the home. For homes with pets, wiping off their feet and their fur before letting them jump on the couch and your bed will also prevent many outdoor allergens from coming indoors.

If you do allow shoes in the home, have a good mat by each door so that you can wipe dirt and allergens off before walking further into the home.

Hardwood bonus: Taking off your shoes by the door will also protect your hardwood floors from damage. Cleaning off your pets will also prevent them from scratching your floors with dirty paws.

Keep windows and doors closed

It’s tempting to throw open your windows and get a nice fresh cross-air breeze going throughout the house. But, this will only allow for pollen to enter every square inch of your home. Resist the temptation and instead, maintain a nice even indoor air temperature all year round. Be sure to clean air filters to get rid of pollen that is building up.

Hardwood floors and allergies
Wipe off pets before letting them run into the home.

Hardwood bonus: Not only will your sinuses thank you for keeping the doors and windows closed, but your hardwood floors will also be forever grateful for an even indoor climate. The fewer temperature fluctuations that occur in your home, the less they will shrink and contract, and the longer they will thrive, both in strength and appearance.

Vacuum and sweep regularly

Sweeping and vacuuming on a regular basis will eliminate any pollen that has found its way into your home. Make sure that when you empty the vacuum and clean your broom that you do it outside. Pick up extra pollen and dust with a soft damp cloth.

Hardwood flooring bonus: The only thing you really need to maintain your hardwood floors is to sweep and vacuum regularly, and to gently wash with a soft damp cloth. So, you should already be in the habit of doing this, making pollen maintenance a breeze in the spring.