Though it's best for allergy sufferers to maintain a cleaning regimen throughout the year in order to minimize indoor allergens, spring cleaning is an excellent opportunity to tackle some special projects that will help keep allergies at bay.

Here are three things you can incorporate into your spring cleaning routine that will keep allergens out of your breathing zone:

• Repair leaks to prevent mold. Look for areas in your home that are damp or that already have mold buildup and attack the source. Mold spreads, and when dry, warm weather sets it, mold spores become airborne and particularly allergenic.

• Get rid of clutter. Unless we're especially vigilant, we accumulate things without even realizing it, whether it's paper junk, excess clothing that's never worn, or an abundance of kids' toys that we convince ourselves they'll play with one day. Room by room, go through your house and get rid of everything that you don't need. (Tip: If you have to explain to yourself why you need it, you most likely don't.) The more drastic you are, the bigger the payoff. Less things means less surface area for dust to collect on. You'll breathe better physically – and mentally. Trust me.

• Dissuade cockroaches and prevent cockroach allergen. Cockroaches love warm, humid environments, and therefore typically come out in full force during summer months, especially in the south. Clean under stoves and refrigerators to remove any crumbs that could attract these pests. Also, block pantry doors, outside drains, floor cracks, and anywhere else where cockroaches could enter your home.

For more tips on spring cleaning for allergy sufferers and related topics, see:
Spring Cleaning: Dusting Away Indoor Allergens
Spring Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers
Spring Allergies Readiness Checklist