PRACTICAL ALLERGEN AVOIDANCE ADVICE

ADDITIONAL STRATEGIES Use a good quality vacuum cleaner ( if possible one fitted with HEPA filter ) Use a damp cloth when dusting and cleaning surfaces Avoid using carpets so that the floor can be wiped clean Remove / reduce curtains and soft furnishings in the bedroom Replace fabric - covered seating with leather or vinyl Remove soft toys from the bedroom ; WASH THEM AT 55 - 60 C OR FREEZE THEM ( IN A KITCHEN DEEP FREEZER ) to kill house dust mites Do not allow pets in the bedroom House dust mites are transparent and have no natural protection against sunlight. Exposure of mattresses, rugs and carpets to direct strong sunlight ( for more than 3 hours ) kills mites. POLLEN AVOIDANCE  PROVIDES MECHANICAL BARRIERS TO POLLEN CONTACT Keep windows closed at peak pollen times, e.g. in the evening when airborne pollens descend to lower altitudes Wear glasses or sunglasses to prevent pollens entering the eyes Consider wearing a mas over nose and mouth to prevent inhalation of pollens at pea time Do not cut grass yourself Keep windows closed when the grass has been cut  Use air - conditioning if possible Install car pollen filters if possible PET ALLERGEN AVOIDANCE REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF PET ALLERGEN INDOORS If possible find another home for the pet and do not bring new animals inton the home Exclude pets from bedrooms and if possible keep pets outdoors Vacuum carpets and mattresses regularly, if vacuum cleaners are available Change clothes before going to school / work if you have attended your horse /cat/dog