Now that the weather is gradually warming up, there’s no need to stay cooped up indoors with the heating cranked up.
Spring is in full swing and the more pleasant conditions mean households can make the most of the outdoors, whether that’s going for a walk, sitting in the garden or just throwing open the windows to allow some fresh air in. But while it’s nice to be able to do these tasks again without having to wrap up in three layers, there is a downside to the weather hotting up in the form of hay fever.
Hay fever season begins in late March and lasts until September, which means sufferers face several months of battling runny or blocked noses, sneezing, itchy eyes and headaches. Tree pollen is already being released and this will be followed by grass pollen from mid-May to July, and then weed pollen from July to September.
As there is no cure for hay fever, the Met Office says the best defence is “being prepared” by taking measures to reduce the impact, particularly when pollen levels are high.
As such, households are being urged to stop wearing their shoes indoors to help minimise the amount of pollen brought into their homes, especially if you’ve been out walking in grassy or woodland areas.
Pollen is a very sticky substance and it clings to your clothes, skin, hair and your shoes when you’re outside, so it’s important to remove as much of this pollen as possible to avoid it spreading around your home, otherwise symptoms can be worse indoors.
Glen Peskett, DIY expert at Saxton Blades, says shoes should always be taken off and left by the door during hay fever season as a way to prevent tracking pollen through your house.
He explains: “If you don’t already have a ‘no shoes indoors’ rule, now is the time to start. Pollen can easily cling to the soles of your shoes and be tracked throughout your home.
“Leaving footwear at the door helps reduce the amount of pollen brought inside, making it an easy but effective step to pollen-proofing your space.”
It’s also recommended that you shower after being outdoors to remove any pollen, or at the very least change your outer layer of clothing when you arrive home.
Mr Peskett adds: “Pollen doesn’t just stick to your clothes, it can also settle in your hair which leads to lingering allergy symptoms. To minimise exposure, make sure to shower and wash your hair after spending time outdoors. Be sure to change and wash your clothes as well to prevent pollen from spreading inside your home.”
