Mold and Allergens During the Holiday Season

The holidays are a joyful time, but for some people with allergies and asthma, the winter months - particularly the holiday season - can present special challenges for staying healthy. Additional time indoors, dusty decorations, bountiful evergreens, scented candles, crackling fire logs, higher stress levels, busier than ever schedules. . . the list of potential triggers goes on and on!

Here are some tips that can help you and your loved ones breathe a little easier this holiday season:

Leaves and Logs
There are a number of fungal species that aid in the decomposition of wood, leaves and other plant matter. Chores like raking leaves or moving and stacking firewood can stir up mold spores. To minimize the effects, wear protective equipment such as gloves and a dust mask. Remove leaves in your gutters and around the foundation of your home. Place a tarp over outdoor wood piles, and only bring in as much wood as you need for that night when using your fireplace. Also, don't forget to check your chimney flue each year.

Holiday Greenery
If you use an artificial tree and garlands, make sure to dust them each year. In between seasons, store them under plastic or in a sealed container to minimize contamination. For pieces that were used outdoors, make sure they are completely dry before packing them away.

For live evergreen trees, inspect the tree trunk and branches for signs of visible mold or pollen before purchasing. Once you get your tree home, rinse it and allow it to dry thoroughly before bringing it inside, if time allows. Otherwise, consider using a leaf blower in a well ventilated area to give your tree a once over before bringing it indoors. After the holidays, get your tree outside as quickly as possible.

Candles and Potpourri
Limit the use of heavily scented candles, particularly those that are petroleum-based. Also minimize the use of potpourri and other holiday scented items (think cinnamon pine cones!) or air fresheners. Remember that some holiday plants and even strong baking odors can aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms as well.

HVAC System
Schedule a preventative maintenance inspection of your home's HVAC system with a licensed contractor. Have the humidity levels in your home checked to ensure they are within recommended guidelines. Remember to clean or change your air filters regularly.

With a little extra preparation, you can reduce the effects of mold and indoor allergens this holiday season and all winter long.

Air Matters LLC has performed mold inspection and testing services in the Raleigh NC area since 2002. The owner, Renee Ward, has over 22 years of safety and environmental experience and holds both her Bachelor of Science and Masters degrees in engineering. Renee is also a member of the American Industrial Hygiene Association and the American Indoor Air Quality Council. Contact Air Matters at (919) 961-2221.