Guide to Better Sleep

Better Sleep Strategies for Allergy Sufferers

Dust and pollen could be keeping you up

Better Sleep Strategies for Allergy Sufferers
William Waldron
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Dust and pollen allergies are common but often overlooked sources of sleep disruption, especially in late spring and summer. A few tips to help you make it through the night:

  • Keep your bedroom well dusted and vacuumed (let every sneeze remind you to get that done). Wash curtains as well as bedding.

  • Many people are slightly allergic to feathers and down, so look into allergen-resistant bedding. (Gazoontite sells pillowcases, duvet covers, and mattress covers, www.sneeze.com.)

  • Use an air purifier to reduce dust and pollen. (It can also double as a white-noise machine, blocking out bothersome bumps and woofs in the night.) The Panasonic F-P10HU1 is a good pick ($80; www.panasonic.com).

  • Use a humidifier in winter to fight scratchy skin and respiratory ailments; and air conditioner or dehumidifier in summer, when heat makes it hard to sleep. The Slant/Fin humidifier has a UV light that kills any mold spores it might produce ($100, www.drugstore.com).

  • Some people are sensitive to harsh-smelling cleaning supplies — like ammonia and bleach — and highly scented detergents. Check out unscented and environmentally friendly options, like Earth Friendly Products or Naturally Yours.

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