How to reduce pollen in your home through your windows

As summer approaches and temperatures gradually increase, pollen levels are also on the rise. With nearly half of the UK population experiencing hayfever, making it the most common allergy,¹ The Residence Collection shares their simple tips to utilise your windows effectively in reducing pollen levels within your home during this hayfever season:

Keep trickle vents open

“If you have trickle vents, try to keep them open. This allows for a consistent supply of fresh air when your windows are shut, while still reducing the concentration of allergens and irritants making their way indoors.”

Trickle vents are the small ventilators built into the top of a window frame, designed to let air circulate without having to open the window itself. Leaving them open during hayfever season means you get background ventilation without the higher pollen load that comes with a fully open window.

Clean curtains and blinds regularly

“It’s essential to clean curtains and blinds regularly. Dust and pollen can accumulate on curtains and blinds, exacerbating hayfever symptoms. Clean them frequently using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or by washing them right before hayfever season gets in full swing.”

Clean window frames, glazing and seals

“Another crucial step is to clean windows regularly to remove any pollen that may have settled on the frames, glazing or seals. Just warm soapy water will effectively clean windows and minimise pollen buildup.”

A quick wipe-down once a week during peak season stops it building up and being stirred back into the air every time the window’s opened or closed. A more in depth window clean is required on a less frequent basis.

When’s the best time to open your windows?

Pollen counts are typically at their lowest first thing in the morning and again in the evening after the air has settled. If you do want fresh air, these windows of time are generally better than the middle of the day, when pollen counts tend to peak.

“By following these simple tips, you can create a more pollen-free environment within your home, providing relief for hayfever sufferers during the peak allergy season.”

Frequently asked questions

Does closing windows actually help with hayfever?
Yes. Keeping windows closed during the day, especially when pollen counts are high, is one of the simplest ways to reduce the amount of pollen getting indoors. Trickle vents let you keep some airflow going without opening the window fully.

How often should I clean my windows during hayfever season?
Once a week is a reasonable baseline during peak pollen months, more often if pollen counts are particularly high in your area.

Can pollen get through closed windows?
A well-sealed, properly maintained window keeps most pollen out when closed. Gaps around worn seals or an open trickle vent with a poor filter are the most likely places it gets through.

Residence: windows built for a healthier home

Well-fitted, well-sealed windows do more than keep the weather out, they help keep pollen and allergens where they belong: outside. Every Residence Collection window is built to the highest standards of fit and finish, so you get the airflow you want without an open invitation for pollen.

Download a brochure or find your local Residence Collection installer.