Indoor AllergensSouthwest Environmental Health Sciences Center1, College of Public Health2

Ashley Lykins1, Kiana Kaye1, Ingrique Salt1, Marti Lindsey, PhD1, Mary Kay O’Rourke, PhD2

Common Triggers

Dust: Dust can be made up of dozens of things, including tiny bits of Plants, skin, soil, insects, food, fibers, and

animal matter.

Dust Mites: Although you’ll find dust mites all over the house, the droppings concentrate in areas with human dander (dead skin

flakes) and high humidity.

Cockroaches: Like dust, roaches can be found almost everywhere. The potential allergen is a protein found in the cockroach’s droppings.

Mold: Mold and mildew thrive in high humidity, such as under bathroom/kitchen sinks, under carpets, behind refrigerators, and around air

conditioning units.

Pet Dander: If you have pet allergies, you’re not actually allergic to cat or dog hair. Instead, the allergic reaction is caused by a tiny protein in

an animal’s saliva

Pollen: If you go outside, you can bring pollen into your home from clothes or shoes. Pets can bring the pollen into homes making others believe they are allergic to

pets

Know the Difference

Typical indoor allergy symptoms include:• A drippy nose with watery, clear secretions• Itchy eyes• Symptoms that linger for weeks• Can happen any time of the year; symptoms can

begin immediately after contact with allergy triggers

Cold symptoms differ in a few ways, including:• Nasal secretions are discolored• You have chills and body aches• Symptoms linger a week or 10 days

Indoor AllergensSouthwest Environmental Health Sciences Center1, College of Public Health2

Ashley Lykins1, Kiana Kaye1, Ingrique Salt1, Marti Lindsey, PhD1, Mary Kay O’Rourke, PhD2

Cleaning Your Home to Control Allergens

• At least once a week wash pillowcases, sheets, and blankets in hot water and dry in a hot dryer.

• Encase mattresses, pillows, comforters, and other bedding in allergen-proof covers.

• Reduce animal dander by vacuuming frequently and washing your pet at least once a week.

• To prevent mold, scrub away mold from tiles and bathroom surfaces and replace shower curtains.

• To eliminate cockroaches, store food in tightly sealed containers or properly get rid of unwanted food.

• Use either a humidifier or a dehumidifier as needed to keep humidity at about 40%.

• Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to capture tiny particles in the air.

Using Non-Toxic CleanersBaking Soda: Sprinkled on a damp sponge or cloth, baking soda can be used as a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser for kitchen counter tops, sinks, bathtubs, and ovens.

White Vinegar and Lemon Juice: These acids neutralize alkaline substances such as scale from hard water. Acids dissolve gummy buildup, eat away tarnish, and remove dirt from wood surfaces.

Liquid Soaps and Detergent: If you have hard water, buy a biodegradable detergent without perfumes; if you have soft water you can use liquid soap.

Disinfectants: Use a hydrogen peroxide based cleaner and a microfiber cloth. Harsher chemicals are not usually necessary for routine disinfection.