How to Survive Spring Allergies
As the days grow longer and the flowers begin to bloom, spring also ushers in something far less pleasant for many: seasonal allergies. Sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and congestion are common symptoms brought on by the increased presence of pollen, dust, mold spores, and other airborne allergens. If you’re one of the millions who suffer from spring allergies, we’re here to help.
Here’s how an air purifier can help reduce allergy symptoms this season—and how to get the most out of yours.
How Air Purifiers Fight Spring Allergens
Air purifiers work by pulling in air from your home and passing it through filters that capture airborne particles. The most effective units use HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which can trap up to 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. That includes:
- Pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold spores
- Pet dander
- Smoke and other pollutants
By removing these allergens from the air, an air purifier can help reduce your exposure and ease symptoms, especially for those with hay fever, asthma, or other respiratory sensitivities. Air purifiers also help with hair and other larger particles, as well as odors in the home—which is huge for homes with pets.
Placement Matters: Where to Put Your Air Purifier
To get the best results from your air purifier, strategic placement is key:
1) Start with the Bedroom
You spend a large portion of your day sleeping, and a good night's rest is crucial when managing allergies. Place one purifier near the bed—but not directly against a wall or furniture—to allow for proper airflow. Some of our favorite air purifiers for bedrooms are AC4825W, Airsafe+, or AC5250PT for homes with pets. Each of these comes in black or white, to help match your bedroom design.
2) Keep Doors and Windows Closed
An air purifier is most effective in a contained space. Limit the introduction of new allergens by keeping windows shut and using weather stripping on drafty doors.
3) High-Traffic Areas & Offices
Consider using another air purifier in common areas like the living room or kitchen, especially if you have pets or keep windows open during warmer days. Or if you work from home, you may want an air purifier in your home office. If you place an air purifier in bigger rooms like an open concept living area, be sure you choose an air purifier powerful enough for that space. For example, our AC9200WCA Air Purifier is great for large spaces.
Don’t Forget: Change Your Filter Regularly
One of the most important—but often overlooked—steps in using an air purifier effectively is changing the filter on time. A dirty or clogged filter can’t trap allergens effectively and may even release particles back into the air.
- Check the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific model. GermGuardian recommends changing your filter every 6-8 months with regular use.
- If your allergies are severe, or if the purifier runs constantly, you might need to change it more often.
- Some units have filter change indicators—don’t ignore them!
Regular filter maintenance not only keeps your air cleaner but also extends the life of your device.
Bonus Tips for Allergy Relief
While an air purifier can significantly help, it’s even more effective when used in combination with other allergy management strategies:
- Vacuum regularly with a HEPA-filter vacuum.
- Wash bedding weekly in hot water.
- Shower after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from your hair and skin.
- Keep pets groomed and bathed regularly if they go outside.
Final Thoughts
An air purifier is a simple, powerful tool in your allergy-fighting toolkit—especially during the springtime when airborne allergens are at their peak. With the right placement and regular maintenance, including timely filter changes, you can create a cleaner, healthier indoor environment and enjoy the season a little more comfortably.
