As the weather warms up with the arrival of spring, you might be tempted to switch off the tumble dryers and opt for hanging your laundry outside. However, if you find yourself sneezing and experiencing itchy eyes, it could be due to your freshly washed sheets.
Individuals suffering from hay fever may soon notice an increase in their allergies. With around 30 different types of pollens triggering hay fever symptoms, the prevalence of tree pollen in March, affecting a quarter of the British population, can exacerbate allergies when doing laundry outdoors.
Molly Freshwater, the founder of Secret Linen Store, has cautioned about the impact of hay fever on sleep and advised against airing bedding outside, even on sunny and breezy days. She mentioned that warm, dry days tend to have higher levels of airborne pollen, which is not ideal for allergy sufferers.
Pointing out a common error, Molly emphasized that while outdoor air and sunshine can give bedding a fresh feel, they also offer opportunities for pollen to attach to fabrics. Pollen sticking to bedding can worsen hay fever symptoms and disrupt sleep quality.
To address this issue, Molly recommended that hay fever sufferers keep windows closed during the pollen season, despite the allure of spring breezes. Additionally, she suggested taking a shower after outdoor activities, especially before bedtime, and grooming pets to prevent pollen transfer indoors.
Molly’s final advice focused on preventing allergens from reaching bedding. By covering the duvet with a spare sheet during the day, a protective barrier can be created to hinder pollen settling on the bedding, reducing pollen exposure in the sleeping area. Simply remove the spare sheet when preparing for bed.
Remember, your experience on our site involves the use of cookies and other identifiers to enhance your visit, analyze usage patterns, and display personalized ads. You can manage your data preferences by clicking the “Do Not Sell or Share my Data” option on the website. Your acceptance of our use of cookies signifies your agreement to our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.