While outdoor allergens may not bring on the sneezing and itching this season, indoor allergens are on the rise. Mold and dust mites thrive in colder months as humidity levels increase indoors. Pet allergies also flare as temperatures drop, and they spend more time indoors. Don’t let these allergens take over your bedroom. The allergists at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers have tips on how to create an allergy-free bedroom, so you can feel relief in your home.
Remove Or Deep Clean Carpet
Carpet traps dust, dirt, and pollen. It’s best to just get rid of it if possible. Opt for a hardwood flooring that you can clean easily. If your home is filled with tile flooring, we suggest investing in a small pressure washer to clean between the cracks where dirt often gets stuck. Set aside one day a week for this chore to eliminate buildup. Consider wearing a mask while cleaning.
If removing your carpet is not an option for you, vacuum it often with a good suction vacuum cleaner. This will help reduce symptoms if you track allergens inside. In addition to vacuuming, deep clean or steam your carpet monthly, especially if you have pets. You can also buy or rent a vacuum that cleans your carpet.
Get Dust Mite Proof Covers
Dust mites love to settle in your bed. They’re so tiny, that you don’t even know they are there. They could be the cause of your sniffling and asthma symptoms at bedtime. Dust mite proof covers protect your bedding from these critters to help you get a better night’s sleep. Covers are available for pillows, comforters, mattresses, and box springs. They don’t have to be washed as often as regular bedding, so they last longer.
There are many options when it comes to dust mite proof covers. We suggest buying them from an allergy supply store that has been tested and proven to block dust mite allergens.
Use A HEPA Filter In The Bedroom
A HEPA filter is a type of mechanical air filter. It helps control allergies by trapping pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and smoke. HEPA filters purify the air in your bedroom, resulting in less allergy symptoms. If you suffer from asthma, a HEPA filter may help you breathe better.
Most air purifiers contain HEPA filters. They work perfectly for single rooms, and you can find them at most home improvement stores. While these filters are great for cleaning the air, you should still not allow visitors to smoke inside, and ask them to take their shoes off before entering the home.
Use A Dehumidifier
As previously stated, mold and dust mites love high humidity. Many people believe that mold just grows in bathroom and kitchens, but it can grow anywhere. If your bedroom is humid, you might see spores on your wall.
Use a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in your bedroom. To check if your bedroom is humid, look for wet stains on the wall. You can also check for condensation on the windows. This is a clear indication that you need a dehumidifier.
Keep Pets Out Of The Bedroom
We know you love cuddling with your furry friend, but it’s best to keep them out of the bedroom. Pet dander can make your allergies worse. Even if you aren’t allergic to pet dander, other allergens stick to their fur and can be carried into the house. If you take your pet for daily walks outside, it’s common for them to track pollen indoors.
Keep your bedroom a no pet zone, and you will see an improve in your allergy symptoms; however, if you still need treatment, call the allergists at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers for allergy relief.
Meet The Physician Collaborator
Dr. Sima Patel is a doctor of osteopathic medicine. She is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine as well as the American Board of Allergy and Immunology. You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel by calling (212) 686-4448 or by visiting one of our seven locations throughout Manhattan and Queens.