|
Night after night your child has trouble breathing. After you’ve tucked her into bed, she sits up and complains of a stuffy nose. You realize that this has been going on for a number of nights with none of the usual cold symptoms developing. A trip to the doctor confirms that your child is suffering from a common allergy to dust.
People who are diagnosed with dust allergies are actually allergic to the waste of the dust mite. Invisible to the naked eye, these tiny creatures that resemble insects when viewed under a microscope, feed off of dried flakes of human skin. They are most commonly found in bedrooms, particularly bedding, which provide the perfect warm breeding ground in which to reproduce.
While your doctor may prescribe an over the counter decongestant, there are several things you can do at home to keep your child’s bedroom dust free.
1. Clean the bedroom thoroughly. Wipe down walls and shampoo the rug if you can. In extreme cases, it is suggested that carpeting be removed altogether. Dust all surfaces with a damp cloth (this is the most effective way of removing dust) paying special attention to doorframes and other areas that are easily overlooked. Don’t forget to give the closet a good cleaning, too.
2. Get into the habit of vacuuming and dusting the room daily, at least until your child’s symptoms subside, then vacuum every two to three days.
3. Wash all bedding, including sheets, comforters, pillows and mattress pads every two weeks.
4. While bedding is in the wash, vacuum both the mattress and box spring thoroughly, wipe down the bed frame and head board with a damp cloth.
5. Try to avoid venetian blinds at all costs. Not only are they difficult to remove the dust from, but they also act as magnets, attracting dust from all sources. Their light color also make it very difficult to tell how dusty the blinds really are. Invest in a pull-down shade instead. These are usually made of vinyl and are easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
6. Wash curtains every two weeks or take them down for the first while.
7. Stuffed animals are a haven for dust, especially those precious teddy bears that belonged to mommy or daddy when they were little. Explain to your child that they must be put away for a while, seal them in plastic bags and keep them out of reach. If the sight of disappearing friends brings on a barrage of tears, let your child pick one and vacuum it thoroughly or put it in the dryer for a few minutes. Explain that the toy must be kept on a shelf, not in the bed for the time being.
Keeping dust mites at bay is a task that you must work at constantly but brings great results. It is hard work at first, but before long, you will notice signs of improvement and your child will be breathing easier. It is well worth it.
| 
