Allergy Proofing at a Glance

Allergen	Immediate Treatment	Short-Term Prevention	Long-Term Prevention
General	Replace or clean air filters Use high-filtration dust bags made for trapping allergens inside your vacuum	Reduce humidity in home with air conditioner or dehumidifier to 45% or less Clean ductwork in heating and air-conditioning system	Purchase high quality vacuum with HEPA filter and encased motor
Dust Mites	Reduce clutter; vacuum and dust weekly and use dust mite powders on carpets and upholstery Wash bed linens in hot water every week Use mite-proof encasings for mattress and pillows Hot-water wash or freeze stuffed toys weekly	Use mite-proof encasing for box spring	Replace carpet with polished flooring Replace upholstered furniture with wood, vinyl, or leather
Pets	Keep pets out of bedroom and family room Keep bedroom doors closed Wash hands after handling pets Find a new home for your pets	Bathe pets weekly	Acquire no new furred or feathered pets
Cockroaches	Clean kitchen and bathroom thoroughly Use airtight food storage	Eat only in kitchen or dining room Use and replace bait traps every 2-3 months Wrap pipes with insulation to lock out roaches
Fungi: Mold and Mildew	Clean kitchen and bathrooms with bleach solution or fungicide Air-dry clothing and shoes before putting away Repair water leaks Remove houseplants from bedroom	Discard moldy furnishings Consult a professional to prevent damp basements

Adapted from: M.L Williams Hayden, "Environmental control and the management of allergic diseases," Immunology and Allergy Clinics of North America, Vol. 19, No. 1 (Feb. 1999), p. 87.