Take Action to Control Your Allergies

This set of guidelines, developed in accordance with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Asthma Prevention Program, will help you to reduce allergen exposure in your home. The first place to start is in the bedroom.

  1. Encase Scientific studies show the importance of covering pillows, mattresses, box springs and comforters in allergy encasings to avoid inhaling allergens while sleeping. Dust mites thrive in any stuffed bedding so encasings are critical for finding nighttime symptom relief.
  2. Wash Wash linens, blankets and any un-encased bedding weekly in hot water to kill mites and remove allergens. If hot water is not possible, wash with a special allergen-removing laundry product.
  3. Clean Extend and prioritize cleaning throughout the home, using specially formulated cleaning products and these 6 steps as a guide to minimize indoor allergens. Allergy sufferers should avoid being home when cleaning is done or wear a face mask when doing their own cleaning.
  4. Remove Remove, treat or clean carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture. Hardwood or tile floors, along with wipeable blinds and furniture (such as leather), are preferred. Vacuum with an allergen-containing HEPA vacuum to remove lung-damaging particles.
  5. Filter High efficiency MERV air filters for your central heating/cooling system are designed to offer advanced filtration of airborne allergens that pass through these filters to prevent allergens from circulating in the air in your home. Wear a face mask indoors or out to minimize exposure to allergens or when cold weather threatens sensitive airways.
  6. Purify Airborne allergens, especially pet allergens, can be reduced by using a HEPA air purifier (also known as an air cleaner). Dust mites and molds thrive in humid environments, so if you live in a humid area, using a dehumidifier or air conditioner will help to keep mold, mildew and dust mite populations in check. Keeping humidity levels between 35-40% and air clean reduces allergy symptoms. A humidity gauge can help you monitor relative humidity levels.

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