Allergy-Proof Your Home

For allergy sufferers, the outside world is full of pesky pollens and sneeze-inducing airborne allergens. But, while many focus their attention on the allergens lurking outdoors, the real problems may be the dust and dander inside their own home! As So Cal’s leading experts in sleep health, the folks over here at Sit ‘n Sleep have compiled a list of ways you can cut down on your indoor allergy exposure so you can breathe freely while in your home sweet home.

Get a Mattress and Pillow Protector
By covering your mattress and pillows in casings, you can reduce the amount of allergens in your bed. Inside every mattress and pillow there can be millions of microscopic dust mites living off your body oils and dead skin cells. These pesky little guys’ droppings are terrible for allergy sufferers. Quality waterproof and breathable casings can cut off their food supply, keep you out of contact with these little critters and keep your bedding clean as well. You spend a third of your life in your bed; it should be your first focus when creating an allergy-free environment.

Wash ‘Em Every Week, Replace it Every Eight
Once a week, throw your pillows, sheets, bedspreads and blankets into the washing machine on the hot water setting. Hot water over 140 degrees will kill off any bacteria or dust mites that cause allergy disturbances. Also, if your mattress is over eight years old, it’s time to get a new one. Older mattresses can house millions of dust mites, creating an unhealthy sleep environment.

Clear the Carpets, Clear Your Sinuses
Although carpets may be comfy on your feet, they can contain up to 100 times more allergens than hardwood floors. Mold, pet dander and dust mites love to take residence in your carpet and aren’t going to be evicted by vacuuming alone. If you don’t have hardwood floors be sure to vacuum at least once a week, ideally with a HEPA filter vacuum.

Ventilate the Bathroom
Mold spores tend to accumulate in the bathroom if it’s poorly ventilated. Be sure to leave the bathroom window open in order to curb mold growth. If you see any black, moldy patches in your shower, sink or toilet, carefully scrub them with bleach for a clean, allergy-free bathroom.

Close the Doors and Windows in the Living Room
Although you want to get proper ventilation in the bathroom, in your living room, bedrooms and kitchen it’s actually best to keep the windows and doors closed during the spring and summer months. This will prevent pollen and other allergens from making their way into your home, greatly improving air quality.