How can we reduce allergen exposure in our own home?

Allergens are substances that trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, itching, rashes or difficulty breathing. They are found all around us, including in our own home. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to reduce your exposure to allergens and create a safer and healthier environment for you and your family.

The Elytis Hospitalour specialists in allergology and immunology are dedicated to identifying and treating allergies. Learn how to create a safe and healthy environment for you and your family from the experts at Elytis Hospital!

Identifying common allergens in the home

The first step in reducing allergen exposure is to identify allergens. The most common household allergens include:

• Dust mites: Found in dust, especially mattresses, pillows, carpets and upholstered furniture.
• Pollen: It comes from plants and trees and can enter the home through open windows, on clothing or pet fur.
• Mold: Grows in damp areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements.
• Animal hair: Found on pets, but also on furniture, carpets and clothes.
• Insects: Cockroaches and other pests can trigger allergies.

Tips to reduce allergens in the bedroom

The bedroom is an important place to reduce allergens as we spend many hours there. Here are some tips:

• Use anti-dust mite covers: Cover your mattress, pillow and pilot with covers specially designed to block dust mites.
• Wash sheets weekly: Wash bed linen at high temperatures (at least 60°C) to kill dust mites.
• Vacuum regularly: Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum to remove dust and dust mites from carpets, upholstered furniture and drapes.
• Avoid carpets and rugs: If possible, opt for wood, linoleum or tile floors, which are easier to clean.
• Reduce decorative objects: Decorative objects such as cushions, plush toys and books can accumulate dust.
• Maintain low humidity: Dust mites thrive in humid environments. Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%.
• Air the room daily: Open the window to air out the room and reduce allergen concentrations.

Tips to reduce allergens in the bathroom and kitchen

Bathrooms and kitchens are prone to damp and mold. Here's how you can reduce allergens:

• Proper ventilation: Use exhaust fans and open the window after showering or cooking to remove excess moisture.
• Regular cleaning: Clean the bathroom and kitchen frequently, paying attention to mold-prone areas such as the sink, tub, shower and toilet.
• Fix leaks: Water leaks can encourage mold growth. Fix them immediately.
• Avoid rugs in the bathroom: Opt for washable mats or quick-drying floors.
• Store food properly: Keep food in tightly sealed containers to prevent insects.

Tips to reduce allergens in the rest of the home

• Regular cleaning: Vacuum and dust frequently throughout the house.
• Use an air purifier: An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove allergens from the air.
• Avoid cigarette smoke: Cigarette smoke is a strong irritant and can aggravate allergies.
• Groom your pets: If you have pets, brush them regularly outside and wash them regularly.
• Change air filters: Change the air filters in air conditioners and heating systems regularly.
• Avoid houseplants: Some houseplants can trigger allergies.

Elytis Hospital: Allergy management support

The Elytis Hospital, we understand the impact of allergies on your life. Our team of allergy and immunology specialists offer:

• Advanced expertise: our doctors are up-to-date with the latest treatments and allergy prevention methods.
• State-of-the-art technology: we have a wide range of tests to identify allergens.
• Personalized approach: treatment is tailored to your specific needs.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration: Allergists collaborate with other specialists to provide integrated solutions.
• Prevention and education: Get practical tips to avoid allergens and manage symptoms.

The Elytis Hospital, you benefit from an integrated, patient-oriented approach aimed not only at relieving symptoms, but also at long-term prevention and achieving a sustainable balance.

Schedule a consultation at Elytis Hospital!

Don't let allergies affect your life! Schedule a consultation at Elytis Hospital and let our experts guide you to a fulfilling, allergy-free life!

Latest medical review:

22.01.2025, Dr. Marius Iordache – Medic Specialist Alergologie si Imunologie Clinica