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Blankets and Asthma

Asthma symptoms can be triggered by many things including exercise, cold air, upper respiratory tract infections and inhaled allergens. Two common inhaled allergens--dust mites and pet allergens--stick easily to blankets. You can reduce impact of these allergens with proper care and cleaning.

  1. Dust Mites

    • Dust mites are small "bugs" that live in blankets, bedding, carpet and cloth. They multiply rapidly and are impossible to eradicate.

    Pet Allergens

    • Pet allergens are found in pet dander, saliva, urine and feces. Pet allergens are very sticky and collect on many surfaces including blankets.

    Cleaning

    • The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends washing your blankets every week in hot water (at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit) to kill dust mites. (References 1, pg 171) This also removes pet allergens.

    Storing

    • When not using a blanket for a long period of time, wash it in hot water and store it in an air tight blanket storage bag.

    Selection

    • Some types of blankets hold up better to frequent cleanings. For example, Vellux blankets are made to hold up well with frequent washings. Some manufacturers now market hypoallergenic down comforters and down alternative blankets that also withstand frequent cleanings. You can also find allergenic down comforter covers that are usually washable.

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