ZIA Allergy Guide

Three things to do when you get home: change clothes, wash your face, rinse your nose

Keeping outdoor pollen at the door works better than trying to remove it once you are inside.

Source: ZIA Allergy Guide editorial team Published: 2026-10-14 20:14:05 Updated: 2026-10-16 15:39:31 17 views

Why what you do when you walk in matters

Pollen sticks to your hair, skin, outer clothing and the soles of your shoes. It comes indoors with you and is slowly released into the air. So during pollen season, the key actions happen in the few minutes after you walk in, not in trying to fix things indoors all day.

What to do

  • Take off your outer clothing at the entrance and hang it up separately. Do not take it straight to the bedroom or the sofa
  • Wash your face and hands with water, and wash your hair if needed, to reduce pollen left on your face and hair
  • Use nasal saline irrigation to wash away pollen stuck to the surface of the nasal lining
  • Change into home clothes before you touch the bed, especially in the bedroom

About nasal saline irrigation

Nasal saline irrigation is a common supportive care method that can ease nasal discomfort. Use treated clean water or a purpose-made irrigation solution. Clean and dry the device regularly. Follow the instructions or your doctor's guidance for the pressure and position. Children, people with ear discomfort, and people who have had nasal surgery should ask a doctor first whether it is suitable for them. If symptoms keep getting worse, you still need to see a doctor for assessment. Irrigation itself is not a replacement for a treatment plan.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.

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