Creating an allergy-free space is something most allergy sufferers dream about. While it’s impossible to eliminate allergens like pollen, pet dander and dust mites completely, you can minimize them by opting for hypoallergenic furniture in your home. And with spring in full swing, there’s no better time to make it happen. 

Here are a few furniture and cleaning tips to prep your spaces for allergy season.  

Living Space Furniture & Decor

The first step to creating an allergy-free home is to assess the furniture in every room and look for ways to reduce the accumulation of dust as well as those elusive dog and cat hairs. 

Living Room 

Start with your living room. Typically the most used and lived-in space in your home, this room is probably your main source of “dust bunnies”. However, if you choose couches and sofas with raised legs and more allergy-friendly fabrics, you can instantly add a breath of fresh air to your space (pun intended).

High Standards – Sofas With Raised Legs

Shop: Reyna Corner Sofa

Elegant and practical, a sofa with raised legs can be a powerful ally when you’re cleaning the floor. The high-leg design adds a fresh look to your room, prevents dust accumulation, and allows for easy sweeping underneath. Plus, you won’t have to struggle with moving things around to get that dirty spot below the furniture.

A Classic Choice – Leather Couches

Shop: Alfa Cream Full Leather Sleeper

Adopt an upholstery that keeps your sofa dry and clean, preventing mold and allergens from forming. Both faux leather and genuine leather are easy-to-wipe materials, so you can effortlessly remove dust or pet dander from your couch using a soft cloth. Find the perfect leather match for your living room style here.

Fabric Style – More Allergy-Friendly Upholstery Options

Shop: Francine Cream Sofa

If you would prefer a sofa that’s upholstered in chenille, polyester, or velvet, be mindful that they’re not as allergy-friendly, making it easy for dust, pet dander, and more to accumulate on the fabric. Instead, consider materials like microfiber, performance fabric, or cotton. 

Do You Really Need Those? – Area Space Rugs

Shop: Blushing 8′ x 10′ Area Rug

Area rugs might look great in your home, but they’re not the best choice for people who suffer from allergies, especially if they are too shaggy or have a high-pile design. But if you don’t like the idea of naked floors, look for wool or synthetic fiber rugs or washable alternatives. Easy-to-clean and resistant to spills, a rug made of nylon or polypropylene material can inhibit mold growth and prevent allergen buildup. Discover the best rug options to complement your home here.

Dining Room

Just a Quick Wipe – Smooth Tabletops

Things can get a little messy at the dinner table and using the right materials can make a big difference when it’s time to clean up. Smooth surfaces are easy to wipe, and you won’t have to worry about trapped dust in any cracks or crevices. Glass tops can also be a good reminder to always keep your table clean and smudge-free. If you pick a dining set with upholstered chairs, look for materials like leather or leatherette that don’t require too much maintenance.

Shop: Sofia Dining Table

Bedroom 

Protect Your Bed – Pillow & Mattress Covers 

Shop: Protect King Mattress Protector

If allergies are keeping you up all night, consider protecting your pillows and mattresses from those pesky dust mites. Improve the quality of your sleep with allergen-free covers and a mattress protector to keep your bed feeling fresh. 

Breathe Better at Night – Hypoallergenic Pillows

Shop: Level 3.0 Pillow

Choose a hypoallergenic pillow with a breathable material to prevent moisture from sinking into the fabric. We also recommend that you change your sheets and pillowcases every few days to prevent the buildup of oils, dirt, and sweat.

Feeling Old? – Update Your Mattress

Shop: Cassatt-TT Queen Mattress by Stearns & Foster

Some mattresses might come with a lifetime warranty, but the truth is that you should probably replace yours every eight to ten years (yes, even if you flip it!). An old mattress can carry up to 10 million dust mites affecting your sleep and causing health issues such as sneezing, congestion, and asthma flare-ups. 

Find your next upgrade here with our wide selection of mattresses. If you don’t know where to start, check out our complete mattress guide here. 

A few more tips before a deep cleaning

Are you prepared to scrub your home from top to bottom? Here are a few tips on how to get ready for a deep cleaning and more importantly, maintain a healthy home care routine throughout the year.

Dust Regularly

Make it a habit to regularly clean the surfaces in your home at least twice a month. Tackle spots commonly exposed to dust and outside elements inside your house as often as possible and schedule the heavy-duty cleaning every other month. Don’t forget to wipe the hanging wall art, ceiling fans, and light fixtures.

Declutter

Sometimes we don’t realize how much stuff is just collecting dust in our house. Go through each room and decide what is worth keeping and what you can donate, recycle or simply throw away. Decluttering your home makes it easier to clean and can give your space a fresh start.

Keep Your Home Dry

Humidity attracts mold and compromises air quality. If you live in a place like Florida, you might want to invest in a dehumidifier to avoid moisture and mildew growth in your home. Ventilation is important, especially in humid areas of your home like the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry area. You can also use an air purifier to relieve allergy symptoms.

Replace Your Air Filters

Change your HVAC filter at least once every 2 months, especially if you suffer from allergies or have pets in your home. Just remember – neglecting your filter replacement might lead to higher electric bills and potential health issues. 

Now, you’re on your way to an allergy-free home! Next step: Visit an El Dorado Furniture store to find allergy-friendly furniture pieces for your home. You can shop online anytime or visit a showroom near you in Naples, Miami, West Palm Beach, Ft. Myers, St. Pete, and Broward.