Although spring is typically thought of as being peak allergy season, summer presents allergy challenges as well. Summer is the time when grasses and weeds pollinate. Dust mites peak during summer heat and who can resist playing with their pets in the great outdoors on a nice day? Here are 7 home remedies for summer allergies:

1. Dust and Vacuum More Often - Dust and vacuum twice a week to keep pesky dust and pollen particles out of the air. Hard flooring will hold less irritants then carpet.  Also, consider decluttering. The less surfaces dust can stick to, the happier you’ll be.
2. Clean Area Rugs, Drapes, and Upholstery - Soft fabrics hold more allergens then hard surfaces and blinds. Be sure not to let dust build up on rugs, drapes, and upholstery.  Vacuum regularly and get area rugs, drapes, and upholstery professionally cleaned to remove dust, mold, and mite buildup.
3. Get Air Ducts Cleaned - Schedule regular Air Duct Cleanings, so that air ducts remain clear of mold spores, pollen, and other allergens that can get re-circulated through the home. Over time, these contaminants can build up inside your ductwork, making the system a breeding ground for mold spores, bacteria, fungus, mildew and other microbes.  COIT recommends having your air ducts cleaned every 2-3 years.
4. Change Air Filters Regularly - Changing air filter is important of to keeping your HVAC system running efficiently and helps keep air ducts clear between regular cleanings.  Change filters according to manufacture’s instructions, usually from 30-60 days and depending on factors such as pets and traffic.
5. Take Allergy Medicine Before You See Symptoms - The goal is to prevent allergy symptoms from occurring. From WebMD: "Taking allergy medicines (antihistamines) regularly blocks the histamine receptors -- the tissues that cause swelling. Histamine works by attaching itself to these receptors on the surface of cells. If you block the site where histamine works by pre-treating with allergy medicines, you prevent the allergic reaction and the allergy symptoms.”
6. Bathe Pets Regularly - Bathe pets every one to two weeks to minimize dander and get rid of the pollen they gather when playing outdoors.
7. Manage Humidity - Excessive moisture will encourage mold growth. Be sure to get leaking pipes fixed, and make sure that kitchens, bathrooms, and basements have proper ventilation. Use a dehumidifier if it is especially humid in your area.