Dust Allergy Checklist

  1. Control clutter -- Especially in your bedroom. It cuts down on dust and makes cleaning easier.
  2. Cover your mattress and pillows. Dust-proof covers keep mites out.
  3. Wash all bedding weekly. Use hot water to kill dust mites.
  4. Dust with a damp rag. Dampness stops dust from getting in the air.
  5. Vacuum at least weekly. A vacuum with a HEPA filter catches allergens.
  6. Leave the house after cleaning. Let dust settle before you come back.
  7. Keep humidity under 50%.Dust mites love damp, moist air. Dehumidifiers can help.
  8. Remove carpets. They trap dust. Replace with washable throw rugs.
  9. Ditch the drapes and blinds. They catch dust and are hard to clean.
  10. Cover indoor vents with cheesecloth. It can catch dust and allergens.
  11. Wash stuffed animals. Trapped dust triggers symptoms in allergic kids.
  12. Freeze hard-to-clean toys. 48 hours in the freezer will kill dust mites.
  13. Clean and change AC and furnace filters. (MERV 8 or better are recommended.) It keeps dust from circulating.
  14. Get rid of dusty furniture. Overstuffed couches and throw pillows hide dust mites.

WebMD Medical Reference Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian on December 23, 2018

Sources

SOURCES:

ACAAI: "House Dust Allergy."
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology: "Indoor Allergens: Tips to Remember."
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: "Tips to Control Indoor Allergens,"Dust Mites,""Holiday Allergies,"Home Remodeling."
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center: "Tips on How to Avoid Common Allergens.
"Healthy Women: "Protecting Your Children from Common Allergens."

 © 2018 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.