As allergy season rolls in, facilities across the Pacific Northwest will soon face an influx of dust, pollen, and airborne irritants making their way indoors. These allergens, along with bacteria and other contaminants, can seriously impact indoor air quality and occupant health. Seasonal allergies impact over 50 million Americans per year, causing over 4 million missed work days on average, affecting daily life. With the right proactive cleaning and disinfection measures in place, businesses can reduce these risks and create a more comfortable, healthier environment for everyone.

Post-Winter Clean: Preparing for Spring

Winter has left its mark on your facility, and as the weather warms, so do the allergens. Spring means more pollen in the air, and more allergens making their way into offices, stores, and healthcare clinics. From HVAC systems and the soles of shoes to open windows, these irritants find their way indoors, settling on surfaces, carpets, and in the very systems that are meant to keep your space comfortable. Not to mention all that winter gunk and debris that has settled into your facility, adding to the mess.

If left unchecked, these allergens can trigger everything from sneezing and congestion to more serious respiratory issues, leading to decreased productivity and more sick days. That’s why it’s crucial to adopt proactive cleaning methods to reduce allergens before they get the chance to settle in. A regular cleaning schedule not only keeps your building’s interior looking great but ensures a comfortable, allergen-free environment for all.

Prevention: Proactive Steps to Reduce Allergens

There are several steps you can take to stop allergens in their tracks before they can start affecting the health of your employees and visitors:

1. HVAC System Maintenance

HVAC systems are notorious for circulating allergens throughout your building. Ensure yours is up to the task by regularly checking and replacing filters, which trap dust and pollen. A professional HVAC checkup will ensure there’s no buildup of contaminants, keeping your air fresh. 

2. Daily Cleaning Routines

Incorporate daily cleaning routines or create a spring cleaning plan that includes high-dusting to eliminate settled allergens. Focus on high-touch surfaces like desks, doorknobs, and shared equipment. These areas are prime hotspots for allergens and bacteria, and keeping them clean helps prevent the spread of illness.

3. Deep Cleaning Strategies

Schedule a full facility clean to eliminate accumulated dust, bacteria, and other allergens that have taken up residence over the winter months. Additionally, carpet cleaning is crucial for removing trapped allergens that regular vacuuming can’t reach. If you don’t have an in-house cleaning team, consider the benefits of outsourcing cleaning professionals. MSNW provides comprehensive cleaning and disinfecting services tailored to your facility’s needs, ensuring your space stays fresh and clean all season long.

4. Specialized Disinfection Services

For an added layer of protection, we recommend a post-winter application of a strong disinfectant. MSNW utilizes Goldshield, a long-lasting antimicrobial solution that provides superior protection against bacteria, mold, and viruses. Goldshield not only keeps your facility allergen-free but also reduces the spread of harmful microorganisms between regular cleanings. It’s the ultimate way to ensure your space stays clean and safe as you head into allergy season. 

The Role of Disinfection in Allergen Control

Routine cleaning and disinfecting are essential in reducing both allergens and bacteria in the workplace. High-touch surfaces like desks, doorknobs, and shared equipment are magnets for dust, pollen, and bacteria. These areas need frequent attention since they’re touched by multiple people each day.

While standard cleaning methods, such as using HEPA-filter vacuums, trap dust and pollen before they’re recirculated into the air, routine disinfection further reduces allergen and bacteria buildup, helping to create a healthier work environment.

Disinfection serves a dual purpose: it keeps workspaces free from airborne irritants and reduces the spread of bacteria and viruses that thrive on frequently touched surfaces during sneezing season.

Best Practices for Maintaining a Clean and Allergen-Free Facility

To keep your facility allergen-free year-round, follow these best practices:

• • Regular Dusting and Vacuuming: Use HEPA filters to trap dust, pollen, and other allergens instead of allowing them to recirculate in the air.

• • Keep HVAC Systems Clean: Regularly replace filters and schedule maintenance to prevent contaminants from blocking airflow.

• • Encourage Personal Hygiene: Remind employees to wash their hands frequently and maintain clean personal workspaces.

• • Consider Routine Janitorial Services: MSNW offers routine cleaning, floor care, and disinfecting services to help maintain a clean, allergen-free facility.

• • Schedule Deep Carpet Cleaning: Carpets trap allergens like dust and pollen. Professional deep cleaning removes these irritants, ensuring cleaner air and a healthier environment for your facility.

Allergy season is upon us, but it doesn’t have to take a toll on your facility’s air quality or occupant health. Proactive cleaning, disinfection, and seasonal maintenance can make a huge difference in creating a healthier, more comfortable environment. MSNW’s professional cleaning and disinfection services can help you stay ahead this allergy season, ensuring your facility remains a safe space for everyone. Don’t wait for allergens to settle in—schedule services today!