Improving Air Quality in the Sleep Environment

Bedtime is anything but pleasant for people with allergies and asthma since that’s very often the time when symptoms worsen. The air we breathe can contain many particles that can trigger symptoms, including dust mites, pollen, mold spores, pet dander, and smoke. Children are especially vulnerable to indoor contaminants since a child’s respiratory system is still developing. The good news is that there are things you can do to help reduce air pollution in the home. 

Here’s some advice from the American Lung Association to help improve the sleep environment in your child’s bedroom.

Keep Dust Mites Out! Dust mites are microscopic animals found in dust and are one of the major triggers for children with allergies and asthma.  

1. Keep humidity below 50 percent. In the summer, that can mean running the air conditioner or a dehumidifier. Dust mites thrive when in more humid conditions.
2. Wash bedding every week in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Consider using allergen barrier bedding that prevents dust mite penetration. Put mattresses in airtight covers and tape over the length of the zipper.
4. Remove carpeting. Use area rugs that you can remove and clean.
5. Damp mop floors often, avoiding cleaning when your child is around. If you must retain the carpet, use a vacuum cleaner with a high efficiency filter or a central vacuum cleaner.  When dusting, use a damp mop or damp cloth to reduce the amount of dust stirred up when cleaning.
6. Use window shades or curtains made of washable material for easy and frequent cleaning.
7. Only buy washable toys (including stuffed animals) and wash them frequently in hot water.

What about Pets? Unfortunately, if your child has allergies to pet dander, almost all pets with feathers or furs can trigger an allergic reaction. So when thinking about buying your child a pet, consider fish or a reptile.  If you already have a furry friend, follow the following steps:

1. Keep the pet out of the house. If that’s not possible, keep it out of your child’s bedroom.
2. Wash pet bedding every week.
3. Shampoo pets weekly.

Control the Temperature and Ventilate Properly. 

1. Use an air conditioner and keep it maintained properly. Air conditioners allow you to keep doors and windows closed in order to help keep pollen and mold spores outside. Make sure to maintain a steady temperature.
2. If you use an air cleaning machine, make sure it does not produce ozone. Ozone is a powerful air pollutant that can irritate the lungs and is especially  dangerous for children.

Don’t Allow Smoking Around your Child. Children who live with smokers inhale many pollutants in secondhand tobacco smoke. In addition to not allowing smoking in your home or car, keep in mind that even smoking outside can be a problem. Smoke that collects on hair and clothing can also be a trigger.