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Easy Breathing
Achoo! If that is a common sound in your household, then you’re in good company: “50 million Americans have allergies, and 20 million also have asthma,” says Mike Tringale, of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). Here, AAFA advises on five household products that can help you lessen your allergy symptoms:
Mattress covers and pillow protectors. “You’re sleeping with the enemy,” says Tringale, because tens of millions of allergy-provoking dust mites might be residing in your mattress, pillows and comforter. Look for products that are dust-mite impermeable, as well as pillows with built-in protectors. (Note: the AAFA certifies such products on their site.)
A washing machine that heats water to 130 degrees. That’s the temperature that kills dust mite eggs; water below that temperature just kills the mites. AAFA.org lists certified washers that guarantee that you will reach that temp. Here’s how to gauge your washer’s temperature: fill it with water and dip a thermometer in the water. And be sure to wash your bedding at least once a week.
A certified vacuum. It should have a HEPA (high efficiency particulant air) filter, which means it can trap teeny-tiny particles; have exceedingly low leakage and have an emptying system that doesn’t re-expose you to all the stuff that you just picked up. Vacuum regularly to keep your floors and carpets clean.
An air filtration system. If you live in a condo or single-family home, you may have a built-in system with a filter. Replace it with a HEPA filter that you can wash or replace regularly. If you don’t have a built-in system, you may need a room-by-room air cleaner, many of which have HEPA filters. If you’re going to invest in just one, put it in your bedroom — it’s where you spend the most time. (Note: Air filtration systems have not yet been certified by the AAFA.)
For more information on products that have been certified or on what merits certification, visit the asthma & allergy friendly™ site.
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my son has asthma and these suggestions are great!