Is Your Home Making Your Allergies Worse?
If you’re constantly sneezing, dealing with itchy eyes, or waking up congested, your home could be part of the problem. Allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mould love to linger indoors, making life miserable for allergy sufferers.
In fact, indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, which can be an issue if we spend too much time in our homes or offices.
That’s why we’re chatting about air purifiers and dehumidifiers. These devices can help clear the air—literally—so you can breathe easier and feel better. Let’s find out the facts.
What Triggers Allergies?
Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to harmless substances, treating them like dangerous invaders. The most common culprits include:
- Pollen – From trees, grass, and weeds, especially during certain seasons.
- Dust mites – Microscopic creatures that thrive in bedding, carpets, and upholstery.
- Mould spores – Found in damp areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
- Pet dander – Tiny skin flakes shed by cats, dogs, and other furry pets.
- Cockroach droppings – Yes, even those can trigger allergic reactions.
The Danger of Mould
Mould in homes poses significant health risks and should be addressed promptly. It typically appears as black or greenish patches in damp areas, such as basements, bathrooms, or near water leaks. Mould releases allergens and irritants that can cause sneezing, runny nose, eye irritation, and respiratory issues, particularly in people with allergies or asthma.
In more severe cases, prolonged exposure can lead to serious health complications, especially for those with weakened immune systems. Conditions like chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and even lung infections can be triggered or worsened by mould exposure. Keeping indoor humidity levels in check and addressing damp spots quickly can help prevent these health risks.
Can Air Purifiers Help with Allergies?
Absolutely! Air purifiers are designed to capture and trap allergens, preventing them from circulating in your home. The right air purifier can make a noticeable difference, especially if you suffer from seasonal or year-round allergies.
How Do Air Purifiers Work?
Air purifiers use filters and other technologies to remove airborne particles, including allergens. Some key features to look for:
- HEPA Filters – High-efficiency particulate Air (HEPA) filters capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, dust, and pet dander.
- Activated Carbon Filters – These absorb odours and chemical pollutants, improving indoor air quality beyond just allergens.
- UV-C Light Technology – Some air purifiers use ultraviolet light to neutralise bacteria, viruses, and mould spores.
- CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) – The higher the CADR, the more effective the purifier is at cleaning air in a given space.
Can Dehumidifiers Reduce Allergy Symptoms?
Yes! Humidity plays a huge role in indoor allergens. Too much moisture in the air creates the perfect breeding ground for mould and dust mites, two of the most common allergy triggers. Dehumidifiers help by maintaining optimal humidity levels and reducing allergen growth.
What Do Dehumidifiers Do?
- Control Humidity – By keeping indoor humidity between 30-50%, dehumidifiers make it harder for mould and dust mites to thrive.
- Prevent Mould Growth – Less moisture means fewer mould spores floating around.
- Reduce Dust Mites – These tiny pests need humidity to survive. A drier environment means fewer dust mites in your home.
Air Purifier or Dehumidifier: Which One Do You Need?
If your allergies are acting up, the best solution might be a combination of both. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Symptom/Problem | Air Purifier | Dehumidifier |
| Seasonal allergies (pollen) | ✅ | ❌ |
| Pet dander | ✅ | ❌ |
| Mould-related allergies | ✅ | ✅ |
| Dust mites | ❌ | ✅ |
| Musty smells | ❌ | ✅ |
Tips for Choosing the Right Air Purifier and Dehumidifier
If you’re shopping for one (or both) of these devices, keep these tips in mind:
- Size Matters – Make sure the unit matches the size of the room you’re using it in.
- Filter Replacement – HEPA filters need replacing every 6-12 months; check maintenance costs before buying.
- Noise Level – Some units are quiet, while others can be quite loud, especially at high settings.
- Energy Efficiency – Look for energy-efficient models to keep electricity costs down.
- Placement is Key – Keep air purifiers in rooms where you spend the most time, and place dehumidifiers in damp areas.
Making Your Home an Allergy-Free Zone
Keeping allergens at bay requires a mix of smart habits and the right tools.
Washing bedding weekly in hot water helps eliminate dust mites while vacuuming with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner prevents allergens from being kicked up into the air. Keeping pets off furniture and out of bedrooms can also reduce exposure to pet dander, and using allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses provides an extra layer of defence.
If your home has moisture issues, addressing leaks quickly and maintaining proper humidity levels will help prevent mould from taking hold. With a little effort and the right approach, you can create a home environment that’s far more comfortable and allergy-friendly.
Breathe Easier with the Right Tools
If allergies are making life uncomfortable, it’s time to take control of your indoor air quality. Air purifiers trap allergens, while dehumidifiers help keep moisture levels in check—together, they can make a world of difference.
Visit Hirsch’s online or pop past your nearest store to find the best allergy solutions for your home. Enjoy a clean, healthy home!