As temperatures rise and the sun returns, many people feel the urge to hang their laundry outside to dry. The image of fresh sheets fluttering in the breeze, infused with that crisp outdoor scent, is undeniably appealing. But for millions who suffer from seasonal allergies, this idyllic picture hides a hidden danger.

Springtime brings a surge in airborne allergens, particularly pollen, making outdoor drying less of a healthy option and more of a risk. Beginning in March, pollen from trees, grasses, and various plants fills the air and remains present through early fall. For those with hay fever or allergic rhinitis, which affects nearly a third of the French population and countless others worldwide, the season can mean relentless sneezing, watery eyes, itchy throats, and overwhelming fatigue. When laundry is left out to dry during this high-pollen season, fabrics absorb airborne particles like magnets. Once brought back indoors, that pollen doesn’t just stay on clothes—it clings to your skin, gets in your hair, and even contaminates your bedding.

Essentially, you’re bringing the allergy-triggering outdoors directly into your home. It’s similar to laying out your laundry in the middle of a flower field and then using it in your bedroom. To reduce exposure to pollen and avoid aggravating allergies, environmental health experts suggest simple adjustments to your routine. First, consider drying your clothes inside a well-ventilated space or using a dryer. When heading outdoors, wearing sunglasses can help protect your eyes from airborne irritants, and a hat or cap can keep pollen out of your hair. Once back home, it’s a good idea to shower, wash your hair, and change into clean clothes to remove any lingering pollen particles. Avoid touching or standing near freshly cut grass, as mowing stirs up even more allergens into the air.

As for treatments, while there’s no cure for hay fever, medications like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can help relieve symptoms. However, the best strategy remains prevention, especially when it comes to small, everyday habits like how and where you dry your laundry. Even simple changes can make a big difference in your quality of life during allergy season. Keeping pollen out of your home starts with being mindful of what comes inside—including your clean clothes. On a related note, laundry practices inside the home also affect your health and the cleanliness of your living space.

One common mistake is leaving wet clothes in the washing machine for too long after the cycle ends. Doing so traps moisture inside the machine, creating a warm and humid environment that encourages bacteria and mold growth. This not only leads to unpleasant odors on your clothes but can also make your washer smell bad and become less effective. To avoid this, always remove laundry promptly and hang it to dry or place it in the dryer right away. Additionally, after removing your laundry, it’s recommended to keep the washing machine door open for two to three hours, especially for front-loading models. These machines have rubber gaskets to prevent leaks, but those same features trap moisture inside. Keeping the door ajar allows the interior to dry out and helps prevent mold. However, don’t leave it open for too long, as this can allow dust in or damage the door seal. Another bad habit to break is washing underwear in the same load as the rest of your clothes. It’s safer to hand wash underwear with warm water to properly clean and disinfect it, as well as to prevent bacteria from spreading to other garments. Afterward, dry it in a shaded, cool area or under the sun if possible. For bedding like sheets and pillowcases, don’t rely on cold water alone. These items collect sweat, dead skin, and dust mites—washing them with hot water every couple of weeks is more effective at killing bacteria and removing yellow stains. Just be cautious with water temperature to avoid damaging the fabric. Finally, don’t forget to clean your washing machine regularly. Dirt and residue can accumulate in the tiny crevices between the drum and the outer shell, especially near the drain pipes. Over time, this buildup promotes bacteria and affects how clean your clothes get. By keeping your machine clean and following these practical tips, you can enjoy fresh laundry without bringing health risks into your home.