According to the CDC, over one-quarter of Americans have some kind of seasonal allergy, with more than 25 million people specifically allergic to pollen. For most of the country, allergy season spans from February to early summer. And during this time, allergy sufferers can expect lots of sneezing, itchy eyes, and just an overall uncomfortable feeling.

But if you’re allergic to pollen, not all hope is lost! There are steps you can take to pollen-proof your home to keep you safeguarded against those annoying allergy symptoms. And to help you better understand how to do it, David Chapman, founder of custom logo mat company, Ultimate Mats is here to walk you through it all.

To learn how you can protect your home from a pollen invasion, here are seven expert tips to try.

Brush your pets when they come from outside.

If you have a cat, dog, or other furry friend, you probably know just how much dirt and debris they can track in the house. But beyond the noticeable particles, your pets can also bring pollen into your home. And this can be especially frustrating because you can’t see it on their fur.

If you want to keep hay fever away, give your pets a really good brushing after they come from outside. Not only does this keep pollen at bay, but your pets will appreciate the extra attention, too.

Vacuum regularly.

Regular vacuuming is the best option when it comes to eliminating allergens from your home.

Pollen particles just love to settle into carpets, rugs, mats, and upholstery. So because of this, it’s really important that you vacuum these areas regularly during allergy season. To truly eradicate allergens, opt for a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter as these types can trap even the smallest particles.

Don’t dry your clothing and bedding outside.

Line-drying your laundry outdoors is a part of many cultures. Not only does it save you money on energy bills, it’s a pretty convenient way to reduce your environmental footprint, too.

But while line-drying comes with its own set of perks, it’s a surefire way to invite pollen onto your fresh laundry.

So during peak pollen season, if you have to hang up your wet laundry, be sure to dry everything inside the house rather than outside.

Change into your “inside clothes.”

Having designated “inside” or “outside” clothes might’ve been a part of your childhood, but it shouldn’t stop there. Another way pollen makes its way into the home is through clothing.

To keep it from invading your personal space, be sure to change your clothes as soon as you step indoors. That way, those annoying pollen particles can’t stick to your clothes and make you miserable anymore.

Invest in a doormat.

If you thought the spread of pollen stopped at clothing, think again. Your shoes are another major culprit when it comes to moving the allergen indoors.

But even though pollen is persistent, when it comes to your shoes, it’s no match for a quality doormat. Investing in a sturdy doormat can help trap pollen before it can cozy up on your floors.

Open a window at night.

Pollen levels are at their peak in the morning, but fortunately, they go down throughout the day until the evening.

If you’re allergic to pollen, try to alleviate your symptoms by opening your windows in the evening hours to minimize pollen entry. Ushering fresh air into your home at night can help flush out any allergens that make their way inside during the day.

Invest in an air purifier.

Air purifiers are handy, little devices that trap pollen particles and other allergens, and they can be a big help when it comes to alleviating hay fever symptoms at home. These specialized devices ensure you have clean indoor air so that you can breathe easy. And if you use them while practicing the other previously mentioned tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a pollen-free environment for you and your loved ones.