If you've been sneezing more than usual lately, you're not alone. Here in Tampa, pollen counts have been high, leaving many of us with itchy eyes, runny noses, and general discomfort. While we can't control the pollen outside, we can definitely take steps to reduce its impact inside our homes—starting with how we handle our laundry.

The Hidden Pollen Problem

That yellowish dust covering your car? It's also clinging to your clothes, hair, and unfortunately, your bedding. According to allergist Dr. Clifford Bassett, director of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York, "Pollen can stick to almost anything, including your clothes, shoes, and hair, and then be transferred onto your furniture and bedding." (WebMD, 2022)

In fact, a study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology found that significant amounts of outdoor allergens make their way into our homes primarily through our clothing and hair. Once inside, these allergens settle into our bedding, creating a nightly allergy trigger right where we spend approximately one-third of our lives.

Washing Away the Problem

The good news? Your washing machine can be your best ally in fighting pollen. Here's how to make your laundry routine work harder for your allergies:

For Regular Clothing:

1. Wash more frequently during peak pollen season

   Don't rewear clothes during high pollen days—even if they "look clean." They're likely covered in invisible pollen particles.

2. Use hot water when possible

   The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology recommends washing in water that's at least 130°F to effectively remove allergens. Check your garment care labels, as not all fabrics can withstand high temperatures.

3. Don't skip the rinse cycle

   An extra rinse can help ensure all detergent and loosened pollen particles are completely removed.

4. Dry properly

   Skip the clothesline during pollen season! Outdoor drying will just recontaminate your freshly washed items. Use a dryer instead.

For Bedding and Comforters:

1. Weekly washing is a must

   The National Sleep Foundation recommends washing sheets weekly, but during peak pollen season, this becomes even more crucial. For pillowcases, twice weekly is even better.

2. Don't forget comforters and duvets

   These bulkier items need regular cleaning too, though less frequently—aim for once a month during heavy pollen seasons. If your home washer can't handle these items, that's where we come in! Our commercial machines at LaundroLab Tampa are specifically designed to handle these larger items.

3. Hot water + longer cycles

   The American Lung Association recommends using the hottest water temperature the fabric can tolerate and running a longer wash cycle for bedding to ensure thorough allergen removal.

4. Consider protective covers

   Allergy-proof covers for mattresses and pillows can provide an additional barrier against pollen that makes its way to your bedroom. These still need regular washing but offer extra protection.

When to Come See Us

Some items—like king-sized comforters, heavy blankets, or delicate quilts—are challenging to wash at home. That's where professional equipment comes in handy. Our industrial-sized machines at LaundroLab Tampa can handle these bulky items with ease, and our high-temperature settings ensure a thorough, allergen-removing clean without damaging your items.

Beyond Washing: The Complete Tampa Anti-Pollen Strategy

For the most effective pollen management, combine your improved laundry habits with these additional steps:

• Change clothes when coming home from outdoors during high pollen days

• Shower before bed to remove pollen from hair and skin

• Keep windows closed during peak pollen times

• Use HEPA air filters in your home

Tampa's Pollen Calendar

Here in Tampa, we face different pollens throughout the year:

• Winter/Early Spring (December-March): Tree pollen (especially oak, which is particularly severe in our area)

• Late Spring/Early Summer (April-June): Grass pollen

• Fall (August-November): Ragweed and other weed pollens

  
  

According to the University of South Florida's Department of Environmental Science, our unique Florida climate means we have a longer pollen season than many other parts of the country, with oak pollen being particularly problematic in the Tampa Bay area.

Final Thoughts

While we can't stop the trees and grasses from producing pollen, we can definitely minimize its impact on our daily lives. With the right laundry practices—and a little help from your neighborhood laundromat for those bigger items—you can create a more comfortable, allergen-reduced home environment.

Have questions about washing special items? Visit us at LaundroLab Tampa—we're always happy to help our community breathe a little easier.

LaundroLab Tampa: 8432 N. Armenia Ave. Tampa, FL 33604

References:

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. (2023). Indoor Allergens. Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-treatments/allergies/indoor-allergens

National Sleep Foundation. (2024). How Often You Should Wash Your Sheets. Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/bedding-information/how-often-should-you-wash-your-sheets

Portnoy, J., Miller, J. D., Williams, P. B., et al. (2013). Environmental assessment and exposure control of dust mites: a practice parameter. Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 111(6), 465-507.

American Lung Association. (2023). Tips to Keep Your Home Free from Asthma, Allergy Triggers. Retrieved from https://www.lung.org/clean-air/at-home/indoor-air-pollutants/dust-and-dust-mites