Spring is often the time of year when we roll up our sleeves and get into some deeper cleaning
around the house. Here are some tasks to add to your to-do list that will help eliminate allergens
and toxins.

Ceiling Fixtures
You’ll likely be running your ceiling fan more frequently, but make sure dust isn’t flying! Get your
extendable duster to tackle those fans, light fixtures, moldings, or anything up high that’s likely
to be covered in dust.

Patio Furniture
Whether your patio furniture remained outside year-round or was stored during the winter, it
could probably use a good cleaning. Now that pollen is starting to fly, it’s a good idea to wipe it
down to eliminate allergens.

HVAC Cleaning
“HVAC (heat, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems have been shown to collect a variety of
contaminants such as mold, fungi, bacteria and very small particles of dust that have the
potential to affect overall health”, says NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association). This
means it’s a good idea to have your air ducts and vents professionally cleaned. Oh, and don’t
forget to regularly change those air filters!

Got Plants?
While some houseplants are natural air-purifiers, you need to prevent mold growth in the soil
from becoming airborne which makes air worse. To do this, you can cover the soil with aquarium
stone. If you’d like to welcome some greenery in your home, here are some plants that are easy
to maintain and safe for your pets:
Spider plants (chlorophytum comosum)
Prayer plant (maranta leuconeura)
Boston fern (nephrolepis exaltata)
(Find more pet-friendly plants here!)

Get Fresh Air
Open your windows to get fresh air exchanges. Even if the outside air is still a little chilly,
cracking a window just enough so you just barely feel it on the back of your hand on one end of
your home and the same on the far end (or upper floor if multistory) will make a big difference
with little to no impact on your heating or cooling system. Remember, “the solution to pollution
can be dilution”.

Mold Evaluation
If you’ve had any recent leaks, water damage, or other moisture issues in your home, it’s a good
idea to make sure there is no mold growth. Mold thrives with moisture, but it is never something
you should try to eliminate on your own. Leave it to the professionals to make sure your home is
mold-free!
Contact Green Home Solutions today for an Indoor Air Quality evaluation!