Nearly 1/3 of U.S. adults and 1/4 of U.S. children reported having a seasonal allergy, eczema or food allergy in 2021. A good place to start removing allergens from your daily life is in your bedroom. The average person spends eight hours a day sleeping. That is 1/3 of our lives spent in the bedroom. Reducing allergens in your bedroom is a great way to minimize symptoms this allergy season.
Where Do Allergens Live?
Allergens can live in bedding, carpets, bathrooms and household air. Common home allergens include:
- Dust mites. Dust mites can live in bedding, mattresses and carpets and may be the most common trigger for year-round allergies.
- Mold. Mold grows in places with a lot of moisture, such as showers or tubs, toilets, sinks and even flooring.
- Pet dander. Allergic reactions to pets are most commonly caused by pet dander (flakes of skin).
- Pollen. Pollen can enter the home through open windows, doors or on people and pets.
How Can You Protect Against Allergens in Your Bedroom?
Following some simple tips can help prevent a build-up of allergens in your bedroom.
- Remove and wash bedding at least once a week. Consider investing in dust-mite-proof bedding.
- Vacuum carpeted and hardwood areas weekly. If possible, shampoo carpeting frequently.
- Mop hardwood floors to prevent dust build-up.
- Wash or wipe down window blinds frequently.
- Dust and wipe down desks, bookshelves and other hard surfaces frequently.
- Wash and dry stuffed animals.
- Keep pets out of your bedroom and bathe and brush them at least once a week.
- Invest in a quality air filter for the bedroom or home. Remember to replace the filter as needed.
- If your bedroom connects to the bathroom, clean the shower, sink, toilet and floors frequently and run the bathroom fan for at least twenty minutes after a shower to remove moisture.
- Keep windows closed, when possible, to prevent pollen from entering the bedroom.
- If you take a stroll through Grant Park or go hiking on the Appalachian Trail, shower as soon as you get home to remove pollen.
If you have questions about allergy medication, testing or treatment, contact ENT of Georgia North today to schedule an appointment.
