10 Small Decor Swaps That Could Actually Help Your Seasonal Allergies

Get Rid of That Carpeting

Do you have a room with wall-to-wall carpeting? What about an old area rug you’ve probably had for way too long? These could be harboring dust mites and aggravating your allergies. According to allergist Dr. Tania Elliot, it’s best to get rid of any kind of carpeting on your floors. 

However, if you can’t just give up rugs, know that not all materials are created equal: “Opt for sisal over wool, which can be an allergen to some people,” Dr. Elliot says. Another way to work around your allergies is to opt for washable rugs, which she recommends cleaning monthly. No matter your flooring, vacuuming regularly will help remove dust, mites, and pollen.

Lastly, if you’re currently renovating your home, investing in quality flooring is a smart idea. “Consider switching to hard floors like wood or tile, which are easier to clean and don’t trap as much dust or pollen,” says home designer Gareth Davies.

Keep a Shoe Tray in Your Entryway

A shoe tray is better than a shoe rack, explains Dr. Elliot, because a tray catches the dirt and debris from shoes as opposed to letting it fall on the floor. “Take your shoes off when you come into the house to prevent pollen from being tracked into the home,” she says.

However, a no-shoes policy doesn’t mean your guests need to be uncomfortable. Consider keeping a basket of slippers available for visitors to wear in your home.

Get a Laundry Basket With a Lid

We’re all guilty of taking a post-brunch nap in the outfit we wore outside, but wearing the same clothes indoors during allergy season is a big no, Dr. Elliot says. She suggests putting your clothes in the laundry basket as soon as you get home. “Clothes are another way to track pollen into the house,” she says. “So shower as soon as you get home.”

Replace (or Wash) Your Curtains

While curtains can be beautiful, they’re major dust magnets. If you’re especially sensitive to dust, Dr. Elliot advises replacing curtains with shades. Alternatively, shutters can be a good choice for living rooms and dining rooms, because they can be easily dusted off. If you’re not ready to replace your fabric curtains, washing them regularly can help reduce the dust and pollen they collect.

Choose Furniture That’s Easy to Clean

Cleaning and dusting furniture more frequently can help ease allergy symptoms. When it comes to sofas, choose leather rather than fabric upholstery, since it’s easier to wipe down, Davies recommends. “If you do have soft furnishings, wash them regularly, and use slipcovers that can be laundered.”

Swap Out Your Sheets and Wash Them Often

According to Elliot, it’s best to opt for sheets made of tightly woven cotton. They’re comfortable, machine-washable, and they keep you cool. Just make sure to wash them weekly—yes, weekly—on the highest heat setting.

Get Rid of That Upholstered Headboard

While upholstered bed frames and headboards are definitely aesthetic, that fabric can trap allergens and dust mites. However, that doesn’t mean you need to live with a boring bed frame. Instead, opt for a wood or metal frame instead. Then be sure to wipe it down with a microfiber cloth on a weekly basis.

Put Away Decorative Pillows

Decorative pillows are pretty, but Dr. Elliot warns they can aggravate your allergies. If you’re not ready to let go of them, opt for removable covers that you can toss in the washing machine as needed.

Forgo Fake Plants and Grow Real Ones

Dr. Elliot says fake plants can release chemicals into the air, which can be irritating to the lungs. So, get real plants instead. Not only do they look nicer, but they can also help purify the air.

Invest in an Air Purifier (or Two)

A quality air purifier can really help with seasonal allergies, according to Adam Bedford, co-founder of Sans. He says that while you don’t need one in every single room, it’s a good idea to have one in the spaces where you spend the most time. For most people, that is—at minimum—your living room, bedroom, and probably your kitchen. “Focusing on these key spaces will help ensure cleaner air where it has the most impact,” he says.

Just don’t forget to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for when to replace the filters, because a full filter will not be able to properly purify your space.