UK households are being urged to ditch their washing lines for drying clothes and instead hang them up to dry indoors. The spring and summer months may provide ideal conditions for drying clothes outdoors thanks to the warmer weather - but it's best avoided if you suffer from hay fever. Hay fever season kicks off around the same time as the start of spring in late May and lasts until September. Different types of pollen at released at different times of the year, with tree pollen released first, followed by grass pollen in mid-May until July, and weed pollen rounding things off from July until September.

Most people have an allergy to grass pollen which means symptoms are typically worst at the height of summer, but if you're allergic to all three then it can be a long stretch of dealing with sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes and headaches, among other unpleasant effects. Hay fever symptoms tend to be worse if the weather is warm, humid and windy, but they can also be bad after bouts of rain as this can break up pollen particles, releasing them into the air which can increase their reach and concentration.

Unfortunatly there's no cure for hay fever, although it can be managed by taking an antihistamine or using a nasal spray. But experts say the best way to manage symptoms is often through preventative measures - which includes not drying your clothes on a washing line outdoors.

Pollen is sticky and can cling to your clothes, hair and skin when you're outside, so by leaving your washing to dry outdoors for several hours, you're essentially inviting pollen into your home as you'll bring it back inside once your washing is dry and this can make symptoms worse. Instead, it’s advised that you dry clothes indoors when pollen levels are high as this will help to keep pollen at bay and minimise your symptoms.

Experts at MattressOnline say: “Don’t dry clothes on an outside washing line. Some of your washing habits might need changing when dealing with hay fever symptoms. For example, avoid drying your clothes and bedsheets outside in the fresh air after doing your laundry, where pollen and dust can collect. Instead, dry them in a tumble dryer or hang them up inside.”

The Met Office has warned that both UV and pollen levels will be high this week - even with some showers being forecast over the weekend - so it's recommended that you avoid drying washing outdoors to help ease symptoms and prevent bringing bring pollen back into your home.

The forecaster said: "Rain can be bad news for hay fever sufferers. It helps the grass grow well and if it's followed by dry weather there will be higher levels of pollen."

Fenham Hall Medical Group adds: “Pollen is fine and sticky. Blocking it out when you are outside is the best way to minimise its effect. Sunglasses can help prevent pollen from reaching your eyes, and wearing a hat can stop it from sticking to your hair and getting into your face. When you get home, shower, wash your hair, and change all your clothes."

If you do suffer from hay fever, Allevia is available in a 30-pack on Amazon for £8.54, or the same packet can be picked up at Boots for £12.49. If you are unsure about what will help always speak to a doctor or a pharmacist first. Other options to help with symptoms include nasal sprays like Pirinase Hayfever Relief for adults at £8.85 and eye drops like Optrex Hayfever Relief drops for £6.49.