It’s tough to keep seasonal allergens in check to get a good night’s sleep. Fortunately, there are ways to keep pollen and other irritants at bay! Regular cleaning and a well-maintained HVAC system allow you to sleep better without living in a bubble!
Learn more about sleeping with allergies in Greer and greater upstate South Carolina.
Common Causes of Bedroom Allergies
About a quarter of US adults have seasonal allergies, many of which are caused by:
- Tree pollen
- Grass pollen
- Ragweed
- Mold spores
Indoor allergens are brought in from the outdoors (pollen) or originate inside (dander, mold). Most adults are allergic or sensitive to multiple allergens, including a mix of indoor and outdoor irritants.
Indoor allergens are most likely to build up in a bedroom because of how much time is spent in the space and limited ventilation. Further, bedrooms are often at the bottom of the cleaning list!
Read more: How to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Allergies and Sleep: Why It’s So Hard to Get Shut-Eye
You might notice your symptoms are worse when you sleep. Allergy symptoms tend to be more severe at night due to the increased exposure to allergens and your body’selevated histamine levels. For some individuals, simply lying down can exacerbate symptoms due to airway anatomy.
How to Sleep Better with Allergies
If you’re experiencing sleep-limiting allergies in the bedroom, follow these tips!
1. Use Your HVAC System
Replace your HVAC’s air filter every one to three months. During peak allergy season, a one-month frequency will maximize air filtration. Check your owner’s manual or contact Five Star Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing, & Electrical to see if a HEPA filter is compatible with your system. Finally, keep your HVAC system well-maintained to avoid unexpected problems.
2. Try an Air Purifier
Place a portable air purifier in your room and run it during the day. Look for an air purifier with aHEPA filter to trap small particles like dust and pollen.
3. Keep Outside Clothes Out of the Bedroom
Individuals with severe allergies should avoid bringing pollen into their bedrooms on their clothes. When you get home, remove your outer clothing at the door and put it straight in the washing machine.
4. Wash Your Hands
From the car door handle to the mailbox, allergens are everywhere! Wash your hands as soon as you get home, and avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes until your hands are clean. Take a shower if you’ve spent a lot of time outside to remove allergens from your hair and skin.
5. Dust and Vacuum Regularly
Bedrooms accumulate dust because we spend a lot of time in them. Our activity causes things like dander and fibers from clothes and bedding to collect. Dust and vacuum your bedroom at least once weekly to keep dust from building up.
Does Sleeping with a Humidifier Help Allergies?
Sleeping with a humidifier may alleviate allergy symptoms for some individuals, but it’s far from a universal solution. High humidity levels may actually worsen allergies, especially for people sensitive to mold and dust. Keep your home’s humidity at 30% to 50% for ideal sleeping.
Sleep Better with Help from Greer’s HVAC Experts!
At Five Star Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing & Electrical, we are committed to being your trusted partner for all your home service needs in Greenville and the Greer area. Our team of experienced professionals provides friendly and reliable HVAC services to help your family live comfortably year-round.
Contact us today or call 864-306-4898 to schedule your appointment.