How to combat winter allergies

It may be winter, but if you suffer from asthma or allergies and you’re still feeling summer-like symptoms, chances are a microscopic creature is the culprit. These tiny invaders are dust mites, perhaps the most common cause of year-round allergies. And unless you live in the desert or North Pole, you probably have them. What can you do? There are several ways to control dust mites – and one sure-fire way to get your bedding mite-free.

What Can I Do?

Dust mites are found in pretty much every American home – but it doesn’t mean your home isn’t clean. No matter how immaculate your house, dust mites will find a way to live there. The good news is you can reduce their numbers. The key is keeping your home as dust-free as possible, especially the bedroom.

Although washing sheets and blankets weekly in 130 degrees water will kill many of the mites, there is one sure-fire way to rid your sheets of dust mites. Dry cleaning not only kills 100 percent of them – it’s also good for removing the dust. Scheduling regular, weekly pick-up and delivery of your sheets and pillowcases ensures mite- and dust-free bedding. 

Another important step to take is to cover your mattress and pillows in zippered, dust-proof covers made of allergen-impermeable fabric. A quick check at Super Target and Linens ‘n’ Things showed standard size dust covers for pillows running from $5.99 to $25, and full size mattress covers from $19.99 to $80.

If you’re redecorating, keep the environment in mind. Some fabrics, such as wool, are more appealing than others to dust mites. Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting when you can. If you do install carpeting, choose a short, tight pile. A better choice for flooring is something that can be regularly damp-mopped. Use throw rugs, which can be cleaned weekly. Avoid down-filled covers or pillows, and install roll-up window treatments rather than curtains.

Try to keep furniture surfaces clear and uncluttered. Keep small objects in drawers. Clothes should be stored in closed drawers or in the closet with the doors shut. Install filters over hot air vents, or keep them closed. Limit the number of stuffed animals or toys in children’s bedrooms and wash them weekly in hot water. When vacuuming, use a double thickness vacuum cleaner bag or small pore vacuum filter and wear a mask.

Dust mites do best in temperatures between 68-77 degrees, and relative humidity levels of 70-80 percent. They burrow deeply into the inner layers of furniture, carpets, bedding – even stuffed toys. So, use a de-humidifier to bring the relative humidity to below 50 percent, and don’t let the thermostat creep above 70 degrees.