DUST-MOLD FREE BEDROOM

1) Totally encase mattress, boxspring, pillows in a dust mite-mold proof encasement. Total encasement with plastic is acceptable but newer materials are more comfortable and longer lasting. Vacuum encasements weekly. Encasements can be ordered at 1-877-523-2227 toll free. Encasements should be left on as long as possible-only wash when dirty-as removal of encasements for washing spreads dust mites all over the bedroom, and the entire bedroom must be washed down once the encasements are refitted over mattress and pillows. A regular mattress contains millions of dust mite particles plus molds. Dust mites cause, and avoidance in children can prevent, asthma and allergies. Waterbeds should be vacuumed and then wiped down with a damp cloth.

2) All rugs / carpets must be removed. Hard flooring is required (tile, linoleum, wood). All furniture surfaces must be bare. All dust collectors-ornaments should be removed from the bedroom. Carpets contain breeding dust mites, molds and pet allergen and complete removal is unquestionably the best solution. (Individuals renting, must faithfully vacuum carpet every second day). Make sure that any new flooring-adhesives to be used do not bother you.

3) Wash all linens, blankets, pillow cases weekly. Linens must be washed in hot water (>130 degreesF,60 degreesC) and then dried on high heat in the dryer. Only high heat kills dust mites. A favourite stuffed toy or comforter should be fluffed in the dryer on high heat for 30 minutes weekly (if they cannot be washed and dried like linens).

1) , 2) , and 3) MUST BE DONE TO ELIMINATE DUST MITES IN THE BEDROOM

4) Comforters are not recommended unless they are washed or fluffed weekly. Blankets are preferred as they can be easily washed and dried regularly. Pillows of all types must be encased. Feather pillows or duvet must always be encased, as dust mites cannot be killed inside these items (because feathers are such a good insulator).

5) Pets must never be allowed in the bedroom- this includes cats, dogs, any other furred pet, birds, reptiles, fish, etc. Clothes contaminated with pet fur-allergen or tobacco smoke, including parental clothing, should never get in the bedroom. Shower and shampoo prior to bed if you or your spouse are carrying residual smoke or allergens on skin, in your hair, etc.

6) The door to the bedroom should be closed at all times if there is carpeting or a pet anywhere else in the house. An automatic door closer is ideal for young children. Cool the bedroom with an overhead ceiling fan (energy efficient), or if necessary, air-conditioning.

7) Vacuum the bedroom floor and encasement surfaces weekly. When vacuuming, older standard vacuums must be outside the bedroom (use an extension hose) as these units discharge small allergenic particles back into the air. A central vacuum discharged to the outside is the best vacuum. The only adequate portable vacuums are those with a true HEPA filter (however, these units often develop leaks and the filter can become less efficient over time). Wet mopping is an adequate alternative providing the flooring can tolerate this and no mold problem is created. Electrostatic mops (SwifferTM, etc.) are not as good as the above, but better than standard vacuums. The best routine: vacuum weekly with occasional wet mopping. All furniture surfaces, ornaments, and radiators should be wiped down weekly (with damp cloth or electrostatically charged dust cloth).

8) The bedroom window may be open if you do not have outdoor allergies (pollens, molds).

9) Change your main furnace or air duct filters frequently (immediately if you start noticing decreased air flow). Permanent electrostatically charged disposable filters are excellent ("Filtrete" Ultra Allergen 1250 by 3M or similar -$30, available at Canadian Tire). Permanent electrostatically charged washable filters are reasonable (A+2000 or similar-$150). HEPA filters are best, but the large units required for main furnace ducts are extremely expensive. Smaller HEPA filters are readily available for single rooms, but are only effective if the bedroom is fully dust free, isolated, with the HEPA unit able to recirculate the volume of room air 8 times per hour. These smaller HEPA filters are recommended for individuals with major mold allergies or individuals who are pet allergic and continue to have pets in their house (see Pet Control Measures). Air vents supplying the bedroom can have a small additional filter placed over the vent (simply cut up a disposable "Filtrete" filter with a pair of heavy scissors or with electrostatically charged cloth).

note: expenses incurred in dust freeing a bedroom may be income tax deductible as a medical expense. Usually a covering letter from me ($20) is required. I have a handout about this. Prices are approximate $ CDN.