Itchy eyes, runny nose, sinus congestion, and scratchy throat are just some of the symptoms many people experience when they are exposed to allergens. Suffering through seasonal allergies is a yearly occurrence for many, but when it comes to reacting to your living environment, lots can be done.
If you regularly wake up with some or all of these symptoms, here are some ideas that can help you reduce your suffering:
If your mattress is 10 years old, it’s time to replace it
Not only will it have lost its effectiveness to support you while you sleep, but the accumulation of allergens within the fibers will wreak havoc on your health. Firstly, purchase a mattress that is described as hypo-allergenic or non-allergenic. These will be available in most types such as memory foam, which is considered the best, as the density makes it difficult for dust mites to penetrate. Latex and gel foam mattresses, and fillings that are treated with anti-dust mite repellants are also great for creating the best sleep experience.
Mattress protectors
These are always a must-purchase with every new mattress. Not only do they help protect the surface of your mattress, but they are also an additional barrier against allergens. Since you can’t throw your mattress into the washing machine, mattress protectors are the next best thing!
Pillows filled with materials resistant to dust mites
Whether you are a side, back or stomach sleeper, there are pillows that do help control allergy symptoms during your sleep, but check the labels for words like hypo-allergenic or non-allergenic to ensure a comfortable sleep. Protective pillow covers are also available that will give you an additional shield against allergens. Check with our Sleep Experts to find the best one for you and your family.
Keep it clean
This may seem obvious, but washing your bed sheets and mattress protector weekly will ensure that you minimize allergen exposure. During allergy season, a quick shower before you slip into bed will also help remove any pollen and dust stuck to your skin and hair.
Monthly vacuuming of your mattress top is also recommended to reduce the accumulation of dead skin cells and dust mites. An easy recipe is to take a mason jar or large bowl filled with 1 cup of baking soda and 10-15 drops of pure lavender essential oil. Mix well and sprinkle generously on your mattress and vacuum after 1 hour. Not only will you have cleared out allergens with the anti-bacterial properties of lavender, but you’ve left a lingering calming scent to help you sleep.
Include your headboard and the wall above your bed in your weekly dusting routine to prevent allergens from falling into your pillow and mattress. A damp cloth and a quick swipe on your headboard will do the trick, and a damp flat mop to wipe the wall will collect any dust ready to fall into your bed!
Dead skin cells, sweat, dust and environmental allergens carried into your bed will cause you to suffer unnecessarily. Making the right choices for you and your family to keep everyone healthy, even during allergy season, is easy and very doable as it is affordable.
When you follow these steps, you will surely have a stronghold on those pesky allergens. Consult with our Sleep Experts to help you make the best choices for your needs. Until then, read some of our other blogs to help you rest easy!