With the arrival of spring's warmer temperatures and longer, brighter days, it's tempting to throw open your home's windows and air the place out - especially with all the dirt, dust and other allergens that have accumulated over the winter.

But a good airing isn't enough. Irritants such as dust mites, pet dander, mold, pollen and chemicals can quickly turn a home from comfortable to intolerable if you (or someone in your family) are one of the three million-plus Canadians (according to the  Asthma Society of Canada) who live with asthma and allergies. Over 15% of asthma and allergy sufferers are children between the ages of four and 11.