How to Survive Allergy Season in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is tops on many lists as a great place to live—exceptional schools, low unemployment, affordable cost of living, easy commutes, and wonderful people, to name just a few. 

We also made another list: The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s “10 Worst Cities for Spring Allergies”. Spring allergies are commonly sparked by tree pollen, and we have plenty here, including aspen, mulberry, oak, poplar, and sycamore. 

The sunshine, mixed with breezy days that make it so pleasant to live in Oklahoma City also contribute to our high pollen count. Those gentle winds can carry tree pollen for miles! Although we dropped from the #3 spot a year ago to #7, Oklahoma City has high pollen counts, but allergy sufferers can reduce the effects.

1. Pay attention to pollen count. Check The Weather Channel’s AllergyTracker to see the levels of grass, tree, and ragweed pollen in the air. Prepare yourself before going out by taking your allergy medication. Wear a mask when you need to work outdoors for any extended period.
2. Install an air filtration system in your home to remove pollen and dust from your living environment. Homes By Taber includes an air filtration system in every home we build because we recognize that air quality is often overlooked—and shouldn’t be! The EPA estimates that indoor air is actually five times worse than the air you breathe outdoors.
3. Clean regularly with a vacuum that includes a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter. A HEPA filter traps allergens that other vacuums release back into the air. After you vacuum, run a damp mop over the hard surfaces to make sure you’ve captured as much dust and pollen as possible.
4. Wash your sheets at least once a week. While cold water is efficient, wash your sheets in hot water to remove all pollen, bacteria, and other allergens.
5. After you return from being outdoors, take a shower and change your clothes so you’re not carrying pollen inside your home.
6. Dust once a week (more, if needed) with a microfiber cloth. Be sure to dust ceiling fans and vents so they’re not blowing contaminated air.

With a little prevention, you can endure allergy season and enjoy the great outdoors that is such a plus for people who live in Oklahoma City! Want to learn more about the importance of air quality in your home? Talk to us at Homes By Taber to learn how we protect the indoor environment for our homeowners.