Select non-allergic, washable bedding materials. Rather than pillows stuffed with feathers or foam rubber, use pillows stuffed with synthetic materials. Get special casings (plastic or rubberized fabric) that zip around mattresses, box springs and pillows. These limit your exposure to dust particles. Use washable blankets and spreads, and wash all bedding (including pillows without cases) every week to 10 days, using hot water.

      If possible, install a room air conditioner and dehumidifier in the bedroom. Lowering humidity reduces the number of mites, molds and cockroaches. Hang clothes in a closet and keep the closet door closed, or put them into dresser drawers. Get rid of stuffed animals or use washable ones. Never allow pets in the bedroom.

Reduce surface dust
      Clean your home thoroughly on a regular basis (particularly the bedrooms). Vacuum frequently and dust with a damp or oiled cloth. Ideally, someone other than the dust-sensitive person should clean, but if this is impossible, wear a mask. Vacuuming can raise a cloud of dust. Special vacuum cleaner bags for trapping dust are available.

      You may need to remove carpeting, especially in the bedroom. Carpeting is a breeding ground for dust mites. If you must have carpeting, select a type with low pile. Scatter rugs that can be washed each week are a better alternative. Wood floors, seamless vinyl or linoleum floor coverings are best because they can be cleaned easily and thoroughly, and mites don't like to live on uncarpeted floors.

      You may need to remove from your home any items that tend to collect or hold dust and replace them with easy-to-clean items. Use wooden, leather or plastic-covered sofas and chairs instead of upholstered furniture. Select closed bookcases and curio cabinets instead of open shelves. Books and knickknacks are dust collectors.

       Use washable curtains or window shades instead of venetian blinds and heavy draperies. Choose furniture with simple, clean designs instead of ornately carved pieces. Select easily cleaned decorations instead of dried-flower arrangements, wall hangings and straw baskets. Change or clean air-conditioner and filters often.

      You follow these procedures to reduce your exposure to house dust. If still allergy symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend other treatment methods such as medications or allergy shots.

      Consult your doctor to determine the most effective treatment method for you, and gain control of your dust allergy and achieve relief from allergy symptoms.