Households across the UK are being urged to keep their windows and doors shut as much as possible now that spring has arrived, but particularly between 10am and 3pm. The start of spring coincides with the beginning of hay fever season in the UK, with tree pollen season now already under way.
Tree pollen occurs first and usually lasts until mid-May, after which grass pollen – which is what most people are allergic to – is released until July. The season is then rounded off with the release of weed pollen until September, so it’s a long time for hay fever sufferers to endure the unpleasant symptoms. The Met Office says those with sensitivity to tree pollen may have already noticed symptoms being triggered and warned that birch pollen is likely to be particularly high this season, due to conditions last spring and summer.
The UK experienced its warmest meteorological spring and May in 2024 since records began in 1884, and this combined with even warmer temperatures at the end of last June has provided “ideal” conditions for pollen production.
The NHS says hay fever symptoms, which include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes and headaches, are typically worse between late March and September, especially if the weather is warm, humid and windy.
While there is no cure for hay fever, there are steps you can take to relieve your symptoms aside from taking an antihistamine. One of the best ways to minimise hay fever symptoms is simply by keeping your windows and doors shut, as this prevents pollen from blowing into your home and clinging to your furnishings, which can then make your symptoms worse indoors.
Glen Peskett, DIY expert at Saxton Blades, says it’s important for sufferers to allergy-proof their home as we head into spring and this includes keeping the outdoors out.
While NHS advice recommends keeping windows and doors shut “as much as possible” if you are keen to let a bit of fresh air into your home during the warmer weather, then you should try to limit this to certain hours of the day.
Mr Peskett urges households to shut windows and doors between the hours of 10am and 3pm – particularly if it’s windy – as this is when the pollen count is usually at its highest, so you’ll be maximising your exposure during these hours.
He said: “It’s important to get fresh air, and when the weather begins to improve, it’s even more tempting to open your home up to the warmer elements.
“However, during peak pollen times – usually between 10 am and 3 pm, and on windy days – it’s extremely beneficial to keep your windows and doors shut. This is especially important in bedrooms, where you want to breathe easy at night.”