Spring-Clean Your Bedroom and Prevent Allergies

Spring weather is upon us which means we have come out of the dark days and finally see things more clearly in the light. We may feel a renewed sense to spruce up things around the house and get a fresh start. With longer and warmer days approaching, flowers and other common allergens start to bloom outside. And for allergy sufferers, spring can be a miserable time that makes us want to stay inside.

If you’re sneezing, sniffling, or struggling with nasal stuffiness or other telltale signs of allergies, it’s time to take steps to rid your bedroom of allergens and other irritants. After all, your bedroom is where you probably spend the most time in your home—ideally, seven to nine hours per night—so it’s wise to make it an allergy-free zone. That way, you can breathe easier and avoid letting allergies affect your sleep. Here are five things to do.

1. Keep the humidity in the right zone.

The ideal range is 30 to 50 percent; check yours with a hygrometer (which is available at drugstores). If the humidity in your bedroom is too high or too low, use a dehumidifier or a portable humidifier to create a sweet spot. Keep your bedroom windows closed to avoid inviting pollen in. Instead, use air conditioning during pollen season.

2. Vacuum regularly.

Run a vacuum with a HEPA filter on the bedroom floor at least once a week if you have carpets or pets. Vacuuming will help clean up dirt, dust, debris, pet hair and other allergy triggers. Better yet, consider replacing carpeting with hardwood floors or area rugs that can be washed or dry-cleaned.

3. Protect your bedding.

Mattress protection is not only great for allergies but it is a good way to help preserve your mattress. They create a barrier that is easier to launder than a mattress. They collect dust, sweat and other fluids while keeping your mattress clean and dry. Just simply throw the protector in the washing machine every once in awhile. Use zippered, hypoallergenic, woven, microfiber casings for your mattress, box spring, and pillows to deter the growth of dust mites, molds, and mildew. (Mattress protectors can be bought online check out our selection here)Wash your sheets and pillowcases in hot water (130° F) once a week and dry them in a hot dryer; do the same for your duvet cover every other week. Don’t let pets lie on or sleep in your bed.

4. Eliminate clutter.

All those books, magazines, lotions, and trinkets on your nightstand are dust magnets so get rid of them or at least put them in another room. The same goes for throw pillows— they’re a haven for dust mites and they’re often tossed on the floor, which adds to their dust collection.

5. Shower before you go to bed.

After spending time outside, it’s important to rinse off so you don’t bring pollen or other allergens into bed with you. If you wash your hair right before bed, dry it with a blow-dryer to prevent the moisture from promoting mold growth in your pillow. If you prefer to air-dry your hair, move your shower time earlier.

Hopefully these little tricks can help you conquer your allergies and rest a little easier at night.

article source: sleep.org

This blog does not provide medical advice. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on Mattressdepotusa.com. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.