Dealing with Late Summer Allergies: How Effective Laundry Practices Can Help

Late summer allergies can be a real challenge, especially in September when common allergens like ragweed pollen, mould spores, and dust mites reach their peak. 

For care homes and hospitals, managing these allergens is crucial to maintaining a healthy and comfortable environment for residents and patients, many of whom may already have weakened immune systems. While medical treatments can help alleviate symptoms, laundry practices play an essential role in controlling allergen exposure in bedding, linens, and clothing.

Late Summer Allergens and Their Impact on Health

Late summer brings a surge in allergens, particularly ragweed pollen, which peaks in August and September. Ragweed is a significant cause of seasonal allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. In addition, mould spores thrive in humid environments and can easily grow on clothing and bedding, while dust mites continue to populate in warm, damp conditions. For care homes and hospitals, these allergens pose a significant risk, particularly for individuals with respiratory issues or weakened immune systems.

Due to the nature of healthcare environments, where patients and residents often spend a lot of time indoors and in bed, it becomes vital to manage these allergens effectively to prevent them from exacerbating allergy symptoms or contributing to other health complications. This is where laundry plays a critical role in reducing allergen presence in frequently used items such as bed linens, towels, and clothing.

1. Hot Water and High-Heat Drying to Eliminate Allergens

The most effective way to remove allergens from laundry is by utilising hot water washes and thermal disinfection cycles. Washing items like bedding and clothing in temperatures of at least 130°F (55°C) is crucial for killing dust mites and breaking down allergens such as pollen and mould spores. Thermal disinfection cycles, which are commonly used in healthcare settings, ensure that laundry undergoes a thorough sanitization process, eliminating not only allergens but also harmful bacteria and viruses.

Following up with high-heat drying further ensures that any remaining allergens are removed, providing an added layer of protection. For care homes and hospitals, these high-temperature cycles and thermal disinfection protocols are essential in creating a hygienic environment, particularly during the peak allergy season in late summer and early fall. This method not only helps with allergen control but also guarantees a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all residents and patients.

Hypoallergenic Detergents for Sensitive Skin

While hot water and high-heat drying can address allergen removal, choosing the right detergent is just as important. Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergents are ideal for healthcare settings, as they minimise the risk of skin irritation while still effectively cleaning and removing allergens. Traditional detergents, especially those with added fragrances, may leave residues that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

In care homes and hospitals, where residents may have underlying skin conditions or sensitivities, using mild, allergen-friendly detergents ensures a more comfortable experience while maintaining hygiene.

4. Maintaining Regular Laundry Cycles to Prevent Allergen Build-Up

To prevent allergen accumulation, a strict laundry schedule is necessary. Regularly washing bedding, curtains, and clothing reduces the risk of allergen build-up. In healthcare facilities, daily or frequent laundering of linens is critical during peak allergy periods to reduce allergen exposure. 

Consistent laundry routines are especially important for those with chronic respiratory conditions or allergies, as prolonged exposure to dust mites, pollen, and mould spores can worsen symptoms. By adhering to regular wash cycles, care homes and hospitals can create a cleaner, safer environment for their residents and patients.

5. Proper Storage to Prevent Recontamination

Clean laundry should be stored in a way that prevents recontamination by airborne allergens like pollen and dust mites. In healthcare settings, it’s important to keep laundered items in sealed, climate-controlled storage areas to reduce their exposure to allergens. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of laundry storage spaces further ensures the hygiene of stored linens and clothing.

6. Staff Training on Allergen Management

Training laundry and housekeeping staff on proper allergen management practices is crucial. Staff should be educated on the importance of hot water washes, high-heat drying, and the use of hypoallergenic detergents. Additionally, staff should be aware of how to handle linens and clothing to prevent contamination and maintain cleanliness during allergy season.

Conclusion

As late summer allergies peak in September, hospitals and care homes need to stay vigilant in managing allergens to protect vulnerable residents and patients. By adopting effective laundry practices—such as using hot water, hypoallergenic detergents, and commercial-grade equipment—these facilities can reduce allergen exposure and ensure a clean, healthy environment. By focusing on regular laundering schedules and proper storage, healthcare facilities can stay ahead of allergy season and provide the best care for their patients and residents.