A common worry with fresh-cut Christmas trees is that their needles might fall off too soon. However, most people don’t realize that live trees can be a breeding ground for mold. Live trees are exposed to damp conditions during harvest and transport. They’re often cut weeks in advance at local tree farms, giving mold spores plenty of time to multiply before the tree enters your home. Here’s what you need to know about Christmas tree mold and what you can do to protect your family this holiday season.
Christmas Tree Allergens
Millions of people bring live Christmas trees into their homes each holiday season, often unaware they might carry mold spores, insects, and potentially harmful chemicals. Because coniferous trees hold a lot of moisture, they can decay quickly, creating an ideal environment for mold growth. Once indoors, mold can spread rapidly in a warm, humid environment, causing issues for those sensitive to allergens.
Most families set up their trees from late November to early December, keeping them for four to five weeks with regular watering. However, mold experts recommend limiting this to four to seven days to reduce the spread of mold spores in your home. The longer the tree remains indoors, the greater the risk of it releasing more spores, which may trigger allergy symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, and respiratory discomfort.
Alongside mold, these trees may also contain pesticides and terpenes, which are sometimes applied to boost the natural pine scent but could cause further sensitivity for those with allergies. Inspecting wreaths and other live decorations for mold is a good idea, as they can also harbor allergens.
Christmas Tree Syndrome
“Christmas Tree Syndrome” is a serious allergic reaction triggered by live Christmas trees. When trees are brought indoors, they often release mold spores, dust, and pollen. These airborne particles may cause symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and coughing, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities or allergies. Besides mold, trees can carry natural chemicals called terpenes. They may have been treated with pesticides, both of which can also contribute to allergic responses during the holiday season. If you want to keep the authentic experience of a live tree, there are several ways you can minimize your Christmas tree allergies this season.
Minimizing Christmas Tree Allergens
1. Choose the Right Tree Farm
Consider choosing a local tree farm or nursery that offers a tree-shaking service to remove loose pollen and needles. Opt for farms that avoid using harsh pesticides or chemical sprays, which can linger on the tree and irritate allergies. Selecting a freshly cut tree can also help, as mold and mildew are more likely to accumulate on older trees stored for extended periods.
2. Wash the Tree
After you bring your tree home, hose it outside to remove dirt and debris. Then, hang it to dry in a warm place for a few days, like your garage or basement. This will help remove clingy allergens like insects, feces, and dust that would otherwise infect your living space.
3. Cover Up When Decorating
Some people may have allergies to the tree’s mold and pollen, and others will experience adverse skin reactions when touching the lingering sap. The best way to minimize as many negative health impacts as possible is to cover your arms and legs when decorating the tree fully. You should even wear a mask to prevent mold spore inhalation while stringing the lights and working between branches.
4. Invest in Better Ornaments
Some ornament materials are more resistant to mold than others. Glass and metal ornaments are typically safer than decorations made of cloth, paper, or felt. You can also rely on sturdy materials like plastic or porcelain. Wooden ornaments are fine, too, as long as they’ve been sealed with a protective varnish.
Other materials, like leather, yarn, or wicker, are more likely to be compromised by dust and mold spores. These items need extra protection to ensure they’ll last. Avoid keeping decorations made of food, like candy canes or popcorn garlands.
5. Improve Your Ornament Storage
If your Christmas ornaments and lights aren’t properly stored every year, they may accumulate mold. When you finally bring them out and set them up, you may experience an allergy flare-up.
To protect your holiday belongings, you need more than cardboard boxes and garbage bags. It’s best to store them in airtight plastic tubs in a temperature-controlled part of your home. Closets or spare rooms make safer long-term storage areas than the attic or basement.
6. Relocate Air Purification Systems
Move a portable air purifier or dehumidifier closer to your tree to minimize the spread of mold spores. These systems efficiently pull particulates, pollen, and debris from the air and help stop the spread of spores throughout your home. Whole-house air purifying systems are often the most efficient way to keep spores, mites, and dust from disturbing your home’s vital indoor air quality.
7. Keep Children and Pets Away
Keeping children and pets away from live Christmas trees can protect them from potential hazards like mold and toxins. Many trees are treated with pesticides or preservatives, which may linger on branches and needles. Set up a barrier to reduce the risk of curious pets eating parts of the tree. Keep any young children and pets from playing with the tree or its stand.
8. Consider an Artificial Tree Alternative
One of the best ways to lower the number of mold spores in your home is to buy an artificial Christmas tree. However, like ornaments, artificial trees need to be properly stored. If stored in a damp area of the home, they can become overrun with mold.
This holiday season, give your family the gift of clean and safe indoor air by carefully managing the mold risks associated with live Christmas trees. Mold spores can spread quickly from your tree to other areas of your home, including your belongings and ductwork, leading to health problems and potential damage. Take the necessary steps to properly care for your live Christmas tree, and consider mold remediation services if you suspect contamination throughout your home. By being proactive, you can ensure your home stays comfortable and healthy for everyone during the holidays.
