| Dust mites | - Less costly:
- Encase mattress, pillows, and box spring in allergen-impermeable covers. Finely woven covers for pillows and duvets are preferable.
- Wash bedding weekly in warm water with detergent or use electric dryer on hot setting.
- Reduce indoor humidity to <50%. Use air conditioners in warm climates. Avoid living in basements because controlling humidity is very difficult.
- More costly:
- Remove fitted carpets from the bedroom. If desired, use area rugs that can be picked up and cleaned.
- Replace old upholstered furniture with leather, vinyl, or wood.
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| Indoor mold | - Clean moldy surfaces with dilute bleach solution.
- Fix water leaks.
- Reduce indoor humidity to <50%. Avoid use of humidifiers. Use air conditioners in warm climates. Avoid living in basements.
- Evaporative (or swamp) coolers should be avoided or cleaned regularly.
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| Outdoor allergens | - Limit time outdoors during the pollen seasons, especially in the morning when pollen counts are highest.
- Keep car windows closed, and use the air conditioner to filter the air.
- Keep windows of buildings closed, and use the air conditioner or room purifiers with HEPA filters (avoid "ionic" air filters, which produced the respiratory irritant ozone).
- Wear a high-quality mask if spending prolonged time outdoors.
- Wear glasses or sunglasses to minimize pollen in the eyes.
- Avoid hanging clothes outside to dry (pollen may adhere to fabric).
- After being outdoors, shower to remove pollen from hair and skin, and change clothes.
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