Laundry Tips for Asthma Sufferers: How to Breathe Easier with Clean Clothes
Laundry is an essential part of our lives, but for asthma sufferers, it can be a daunting task. The chemicals and fragrances used in laundry detergents and fabric softeners can trigger asthma symptoms, making it difficult to breathe.
However, with a few simple laundry tips, asthma sufferers can breathe easier and have clean clothes. In this article, we provide you with some useful laundry tips for asthma sufferers to help them keep their clothes clean and fresh without compromising their health.
Understanding Asthma and Its Triggers
Before we delve into the laundry tips, it’s essential to understand asthma and its triggers. Asthma is a chronic lung disease that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making it difficult to breathe.
Asthma symptoms can be triggered by various factors, including allergens, pollution, respiratory infections, exercise, stress, and chemicals.
When it comes to laundry, the chemicals and fragrances used in detergents and fabric softeners can trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals.
These chemicals can cause irritation to the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Therefore, asthma sufferers need to be cautious when choosing laundry products.
Tips To Avoid Asthma Triggers While Doing Laundry
1. Choosing the Right Laundry Products
Choosing the right laundry products is crucial for asthma sufferers. It would be best to avoid products that contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that can trigger asthma symptoms.
Instead, opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic laundry detergents and fabric softeners that are gentle on the skin and safe for people with asthma.
When choosing laundry products, look for labels that indicate the product is “asthma and allergy friendly.”
These products have been tested and certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) to be safe for people with asthma and allergies.
2. Washing Clothes Properly
Another important laundry tip for asthma sufferers is to wash their clothes properly. It is advisable to wash clothes in hot water to kill any dust mites or other allergens that may be present.
Additionally, ensure that the clothes are rinsed thoroughly to remove any detergent residue that may cause irritation. When drying the clothes, it is best to use a dryer rather than hanging them outside where they can collect pollen and other allergens.
Keeping the Laundry Room Clean
Asthma sufferers should also keep their laundry room clean to avoid triggering asthma symptoms. This includes dusting surfaces regularly, wiping down the washing machine and dryer, and vacuuming the floors.
Additionally, avoid storing dirty laundry in the laundry room for long periods as it can collect dust and other allergens.
3. Using A HEPA Vacuum
Using a HEPA vacuum cleaner can also help asthma sufferers breathe easier. These vacuums are designed to trap small particles such as dust mites, pet dander, and pollen, making it easier to remove them from the home.
Vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and curtains regularly can help reduce the amount of allergens in the air, thus minimizing the risk of an asthma attack.
4. Storing Clean Clothes Properly
After washing and drying your clothes, it is essential to store them properly to avoid exposure to allergens. Keep your clothes in a clean, dry place, such as a closet, to prevent dust and other particles from settling on them.
Avoid storing clothes in basements or attics, as these areas are often damp and prone to mold growth.
5. Using an Air Purifier
Using an air purifier can also help asthma sufferers breathe easier by removing allergens from the air. Air purifiers work by filtering the air, trapping dust, pollen, and other particles that can trigger asthma symptoms.
It is advisable to place an air purifier in the bedroom to ensure that you are breathing clean air while you sleep.
6. Using Natural Cleaning Products
Finally, it is advisable to use natural cleaning products to minimize the risk of an asthma attack. Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties.
Natural cleaning products, on the other hand, are made from plant-based ingredients that are gentle on the respiratory system. They are also fragrance-free, which is ideal for asthma sufferers.
