6 Spring cleaning tips for your sinuses

If you have stubborn sinuses or sinusitis, here are six tips for tackling allergens around your home that may be causing or aggravating your symptoms, like dust, dust mites, and pet dander.

1. Encase your mattresses, box springs, and pillows in allergen-proof covers.
2. Use an air conditioner or dehumidifier to keep humidity levels in your home under 50 percent.
3. Remove carpeting from your bedroom.
4. Vacuum weekly. High-efficiency particulate (HEPA) filters are good at trapping particles, although vacs without the filters can do just as good a job.
5. Wash curtains, throw rugs, bedding, and clothes in very hot (140° F or higher) water or add an extra rinse cycle.
6. If symptoms persist after you try all these things, consider a good portable or whole-house air cleaner that will remove fine particles like dust mite droppings and pet dander from the air.

Read more on sinusitis (free), and on avoiding allergens inside—and outside the home (subscribers only).