Allergy-Free Bedroom: Simple, Safe Decorating Tips

Allergies are a common problem, with over 20% of the population suffering from some form of allergic reaction. The bedroom is a hotspot for allergens, from mould and dust mites to pet dander and pollen. But there are ways to create an allergy-free sanctuary and get a good night's sleep.

- Wash bedding regularly in hot water and dry in a hot tumble dryer.

- Use dust-mite-proof covers on pillows, mattresses and duvets.

- Opt for hypoallergenic bedding made from materials such as organic cotton, wool, bamboo or silk.

- Remove carpets, which trap allergens, and replace with hardwood floors or washable rugs.

- Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter to trap allergens.

- Keep pets out of the bedroom, or at least off the bed.

- Use washable curtains or blinds instead of heavy drapes that attract dust.

- Keep humidity levels low with a dehumidifier.

- Use an air purifier to keep the air clean.

- Declutter to reduce dust traps.

Choose easy-to-clean furniture

When choosing furniture for an allergy-free bedroom, opt for pieces that are easy to clean and less likely to harbour allergens. Here are some tips to help you select the right furniture:

Choose the Right Materials

Select furniture made from materials that are smooth, non-porous, and easy to wipe down. For example, leather or faux leather furniture is a good choice as dust mites cannot live inside them, and dust and dead skin cells remain on the surface, making them easy to wipe away with a damp cloth. Similarly, wooden or metal bed frames are recommended over upholstered bed frames, as they provide fewer places for dust mites to hide.

Avoid Cushions and Upholstery

Cushions, upholstery, and other soft surfaces are prime real estate for dust mites and allergens. Therefore, it is best to choose furniture with minimal cushioning or upholstery. If you have a sofa, opt for one with fewer seat cushions, as dust and debris can get trapped in the crevices. Additionally, consider a raised base for your sofa or chairs, which provides easier access to clean the hard-to-reach dust that gathers underneath.

Opt for Hard Flooring

Carpet is a haven for dust mites, dirt, pollen, and other allergens. The best option for allergy sufferers is to choose hard flooring, such as hardwood or tile, which can be easily cleaned with a mop or a pressure washer. If you must have rugs, opt for wool or natural jute rugs, which are hypoallergenic and excellent at absorbing irritants like smoke, dust, and chemicals. Low-pile rugs are also a good choice as they have minimal fibres for allergens to cling to and are easier to clean.

Select Easy-to-Clean Surfaces

In addition to your flooring, choose furniture with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces. For example, leather sofas or chairs are a good option, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, look for furniture with raised legs or bases, which allow for easier cleaning underneath. Avoid furniture with intricate details or crevices where dust and allergens can accumulate and be difficult to reach.

Consider Hypoallergenic Options

When choosing a mattress, opt for a hypoallergenic option. Latex mattresses are a good choice as they are naturally hypoallergenic and resist moisture growth, helping to prevent mould and mildew. Alternatively, choose a mattress with tight upholstery weaving, which prevents dust mites from burrowing into the fibres.

Remove carpets

If you suffer from allergies, removing carpets from your bedroom is a good step towards creating an allergy-free space. Carpets are a magnet for allergens and irritants, trapping dust, dirt, pollen, animal dander, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These particles can be stirred up and breathed in when the carpet is walked on, leading to allergic reactions such as sneezing, sniffling, and struggling to breathe.

To reduce allergens and irritants, it is recommended to vacuum carpets at least once a week, preferably twice, using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. However, vacuuming can only do so much, and it is not always possible to remove all allergens from carpet fibres. For allergy sufferers, hard floors are a better option as they are easier to keep clean and free of allergens.

If removing carpets is not an option, there are some alternative steps you can take. Firstly, choose low-nap or low-pile carpets, which hold fewer allergens. Additionally, deep clean or steam your carpet monthly, and be sure to clean up any spills quickly to reduce the risk of mould growth. You can also invest in a small pressure washer to clean between the cracks of tiles, where dirt often gets stuck.

However, the best way to get rid of carpet allergies is to remove the carpets altogether. Opt for hardwood or tile flooring, which are easier to clean and less likely to harbour allergens. This will help create a restful, allergy-free bedroom and improve your overall air quality.

Wash bedding on a hot wash

Washing your bedding in hot water is an effective way to combat allergies in the bedroom. Dust mites, which are a common cause of allergies, can be killed by washing bedding in hot water. Doctors recommend washing bedding, including sheets, blankets, and pillowcases, at a minimum of 130° Fahrenheit (54° Celsius) at least once a week.

Washing bedding in hot water ensures that allergens are removed, creating a safe environment for allergy sufferers. However, it is important to note that achieving such high temperatures at home can be challenging and potentially dangerous. Some individuals choose to adjust their water heater settings temporarily to achieve these temperatures, but this method can be risky if the temperature is not adjusted back, leading to accidental scalding.

An alternative solution is to use laundry additives designed to eliminate allergens, such as De-Mite Laundry Additive, which can be used with regular detergent and is effective in cold, warm, or hot water. This allows you to maintain a lower, safer temperature setting for your water heater while still effectively removing allergens from your bedding.

For those who are not restricted to a specific detergent, Allersearch Allergen Wash laundry detergent is another option that works well with cooler temperatures. This detergent contains super surfactants that break down the hold of allergens on bedding fibres, allowing them to be washed away.

Additionally, it is important to consider the frequency of washing. Allergy experts recommend washing bedding multiple times a week to reduce allergen exposure. This is because bedding can become covered in pollen, dust, and other allergy-triggering particles from the skin and hair, especially if you don't shower before bed.

To enhance the cleaning process, consider using laundry gadgets like Wad-Free® for Bed Sheets and Wad-Free® for Blankets & Duvet Covers, which prevent bedding from tangling in the washing machine, ensuring a thorough clean and proper rinsing. These products also work in the dryer, keeping items separate and reducing drying time by up to 75%.

In summary, to effectively manage allergies, it is crucial to wash your bedding regularly in hot water, or with allergen-removing detergents or additives if hot water is not feasible. Additionally, consider using products that prevent tangling in the washing machine to ensure a thorough clean. By following these steps, you can create a more comfortable and allergy-free sleeping environment.

Vacuum regularly

Vacuuming regularly is a crucial step in keeping your bedroom allergy-free. Here are some detailed tips to ensure you're vacuuming effectively:

Frequency: Aim to vacuum at least twice a week, especially if you have pets or are prone to allergies. Consistency is key to keeping allergens at bay.

Vacuum Type: Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. HEPA filters are designed to trap allergens, ensuring they don't simply get redistributed into the air. Traditional vacuum filters can spread allergens, causing an allergic reaction.

Technique: Vacuum slowly and thoroughly, ensuring you cover all areas of the floor, including under furniture and in corners. Pay extra attention to areas where your pets spend time, as dander and allergens can linger.

Considerations: If you're particularly sensitive to allergens, consider wearing a mask while vacuuming to avoid inhaling any disturbed particles. Also, be sure to vacuum upholstered furniture and mattresses, as these can harbour dust mites and other allergens.

Additional Tips:

• If you have carpet, deep clean or steam it at least once a month, especially if you have pets.
• If possible, replace carpets with hardwood or tile flooring, which are easier to keep allergen-free.
• Wash rugs regularly, or opt for washable area rugs.
• Vacuum your mattress and use dust mite-proof covers to reduce dust mites.
• Keep pets out of the bedroom, or at least off the bed, to minimise dander and other allergens.
• Declutter your space to reduce surfaces where allergens can settle.
• Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to prevent allergen buildup.
• Use natural cleaning products to avoid triggering allergic reactions.

By vacuuming regularly and following these additional tips, you can significantly reduce allergens in your bedroom, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment.

Keep pets out

Keeping pets out of your bedroom is essential if you want to minimise allergies. Even if you aren't allergic to pet dander, pets can carry other allergens into the house, such as pollen. Here are some tips to keep pets out of your bedroom:

Obedience Training

Basic obedience training is key to keeping pets out of your bedroom. Start teaching your pet from a young age to increase the likelihood of them obeying your commands. Basic obedience commands like "sit", "stay", "come", and "out" will help your pet understand that they are not allowed in your bedroom. Always have treats on hand to positively reward your pet for good behaviour.

Use a Pet Fence

Pet fences are a great way to keep pets out of your bedroom as they provide a physical blockade. Pet fences come in all shapes and sizes to fit your space and pet. Make sure to measure everything before purchasing a fence.

Use a Scent Deterrent

Scents like citrus, pepper, ammonia, mothballs, cayenne, red pepper, and vinegar can help repel pets. Set up a scent deterrent near your bedroom using a plastic cup or bowl filled with these ingredients.

Use Bumpy Flooring

Bumpy floors generally feel uncomfortable for pets to step on, so they can be a great way to deter them from entering your bedroom. These can be in the form of plastic or rubber floor mats with various types of raised patterns.

Create a Separate Space for Your Pet

Give your pet their own space to sleep in, such as a dog bed or a crate. Bring their favourite blankets and toys to make them feel at home. Soon, they won't want to leave their special space.

Crate or Confine Your Pet

If your pet continues to try to enter your bedroom, you may need to confine them to another room when you sleep. Closing your bedroom door and keeping them out of your room may be effective, especially if you give your pet a comfortable bed or blanket to sleep on.

Use a Deterrent Device

There are commercially-available deterrent devices that can help keep pets out of your bedroom. For example, the SSSCAT shoots a blast of air at your pet if they cross the motion sensor, and the Sofa Saver activates a noisy alarm. These devices startle your pet without causing any harm.

Frequently asked questions