Key Takeaways

• When it comes to allergy sufferers, maintaining good indoor air quality is imperative. It greatly lowers their exposure to common allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander.

• With the right strategies, you can make it work wonders for your home. Invest in air purifiers, clean and vacuum regularly, and ventilate your space.

• You can also use dehumidifiers in particularly damp rooms to improve air quality. You should keep your windows closed during the height of pollen levels to keep allergens out.

• To control pet allergens, groom your pets often. Keep them out of the bedrooms and use HEPA filters in the areas where they spend the most time.

• You can make your home better for allergies by investing in hypoallergenic bedding and swapping carpets for hard flooring. Don’t forget to use allergen-proof covers on your mattresses and pillows!

• Monitor indoor air quality regularly throughout the year. By doing ongoing maintenance, you can create a better living environment, especially for the most susceptible populations, including children and the elderly.

Allergy sufferers, do you ever notice the sneezes often start at home? It could be due to poor air quality. Dust, mold, and pet dander like to settle in our cozy spaces. You take on the air, not just the symptoms.

Run air purifiers, vacuum frequently, and crack open windows to allow fresh air to flow in. Again, simple fixes — but they make a difference. Good air helps with allergies, and it helps with more than that, too.

Ever feel more alert and less congested? That’s the magic of clean air. It’s about keeping your space fresh, reducing allergens, and breathing easy. You don’t have to get fancy with it.

Just some smart changes and you’re good to go. Keep the air clean; keep life simple.

Impact of Indoor Air Quality

Living with allergies isn’t easy, especially when indoor air quality is bad. You may not realize that dust, pet dander, and VOCs can cause serious allergy responses.

Watch out for these common annoyances! VOCs are particularly sneaky — they’re 2 to 5 times higher indoors compared to outdoor levels. Inhalation of these substances can disturb your respiratory system if done consistently.

Over time, exposure to poor indoor air quality could result in serious health issues. Monitoring your indoor air quality with a sensor is a great way to stay healthy at home.

Identify Indoor Pollutants

Now let’s discuss the usual suspects lurking within your home. Dust mites, mold spores, and chemical irritants are the ones to worry about.

Where do they come from? Think about the products around your home and the materials your home is made out of. Even your hobbies, such as woodworking, will send particles into the air.

When you open windows or use ventilation systems, outdoor air can bring in pollutants, too.

Here’s a handy checklist to keep track of potential indoor pollutants:

• Dust mites

• Mold spores

• Chemical irritants

• Tobacco smoke

• Household cleaning products

• Building materials

Understand Health Implications

Sucking in some of those allergic substances can really get you in trouble. We’re talking chronic respiratory problems and more frequent asthma attacks.

Ever notice a stuffy nose or trouble breathing indoors? Those are clues that the air quality’s not great. Long-term exposure carries devastating consequences.

It makes asthma more difficult to manage, and people may miss more school or work days.

How important is keeping your home’s air clean?

Simple steps such as ensuring the use of HEPA filters or maintaining humidity between 30-50% can help. These measures are essential in reducing allergens and pollutants that can affect your health.

Introducing outdoor air is also key, as it helps to lower indoor pollutant levels. Proper ventilation allows fresh air to circulate, which can significantly improve indoor air quality.

Every breath matters, so make it cleaner and healthier. Taking these steps not only benefits your wellbeing but also creates a more comfortable living environment.

Common Indoor Allergens

For allergy sufferers, understanding indoor allergens is key.

Indoor allergens can significantly impact the quality of life for those who are sensitive to them.

Let’s get straight to the most common ones affecting our homes.

Dust Mites and Pollen

Dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions and are a leading cause of allergies. They hide in bedding, carpets, and curtains, making them difficult to eliminate. A simple tip to keep them at bay is to wash your bedding in hot water — at least 130°F — on a weekly basis.

Pollen, especially during high seasons, sneaks in from open windows. While soffit vents are wonderful for ventilation, it helps significantly to keep windows shut during peak pollen hours.

To combat pollen and improve indoor air quality, use HEPA air purifiers to capture those small pollen particles. These purifiers are a game-changer in cleaning up indoor air. Additionally, regular vacuuming with HEPA filters can help reduce dust and allergens effectively.

Pet Dander and Mold

Pet dander is ubiquitous, affecting 60% of people in the United States. Regular pet grooming and cleaning can address this issue effectively.

Carpets can hold dander, so consider having hard floors or deep cleaning frequently to minimize its presence.

Mold also poses a problem, as it grows in damp spots, such as bathrooms or basements. Using dehumidifiers can dry out these areas and stop mold in its tracks.

Implementing regular cleaning routines helps remove both dander and mold, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Volatile Organic Compounds

VOCs, often found in products like paints, cleaners, and air fresheners, can significantly interfere with indoor air quality. These volatile organic compounds can lead to various health issues and discomfort.

To improve your indoor environment, consider switching to low-VOC or natural products. This transition can help you breathe easier and create a healthier living space.

Start by creating a list of VOC sources in your house. This may include items such as that old paint can, air fresheners, and other household products that emit these compounds.

Once you have identified these sources, think of ways to cut down or even eliminate them. This could involve replacing harmful products with safer alternatives or finding ways to limit their use in your home.

Tobacco Smoke and Chemicals

Tobacco smoke is a significant indoor pollutant. A no-smoking policy indoors is absolutely necessary to protect the health of all household members.

In addition to tobacco smoke, household chemicals can also reduce air quality. It is important to educate everyone at home about these dangers to ensure a healthier living environment.

Consider experimenting with natural cleaning alternatives. These options can help maintain cleanliness while minimizing harmful pollutants in the air.

Here’s a quick checklist to keep your living space allergen-free:

1. Regular Cleaning: Dust and vacuum your home at least once a week. Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter to effectively trap allergens.

2. Control Humidity: Keep indoor humidity levels below 50%. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and bathrooms to prevent mold growth.

3. Wash Bedding Frequently: Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water at least once a week. This helps eliminate dust mites and other allergens.

4. Choose Allergen-Proof Covers: Use allergen-proof covers on pillows and mattresses to reduce exposure to dust mites.

5. Minimize Clutter: Reduce the number of knick-knacks and decorative items that can collect dust. Keep surfaces clear to make cleaning easier.

6. Air Purifiers: Consider using HEPA air purifiers in bedrooms and living areas to help filter out airborne allergens.

7. Pet Care: If you have pets, bathe and groom them regularly to minimize dander. Keep pets out of bedrooms to create a cleaner sleeping environment.

8. Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your home. Open windows when weather permits to allow fresh air in and reduce indoor pollutants.

9. Avoid Smoking Indoors: Smoking indoors can introduce numerous allergens and irritants. Designate outdoor areas for smoking to keep the indoor air clean.

10. Check for Mold: Regularly inspect areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, for mold growth. Address any leaks or water issues promptly.

• Wash bedding weekly at 130 F

• Use HEPA filters in vacuums and air purifiers

• Keep windows closed during high pollen times

• Use dehumidifiers in damp areas

• Regular pet grooming and cleaning

Improve Air Quality Strategies

Anyone who suffers from allergies knows that breathing clean air is essential.

Improving indoor air quality can significantly alleviate allergy symptoms and enhance overall well-being.

Let’s get into some simple and manageable ways to achieve this.

1. Enhance Ventilation Techniques

Good ventilation is key. If the outdoor air is fresh, get those windows open! It is a very simple but effective product to allow pure air to come in.

In the kitchen and bathroom, exhaust fans are a must. They remove steam and odor, keeping the air fresh.

If you want to go a step further, consider mechanical ventilation systems. They’re the superheroes of air circulation to make sure your home is getting the air exchange it needs.

Pay attention to your humidity indoors! Strive for between 30% and 50% to keep mold and dust mites out of the equation.

2. Select Effective Air Purifiers

These devices are a game changer. Whichever one you pick, be sure it has a HEPA filter.

HEPA filters are basically little nets that trap everything floating around in your air. You’ll also want to choose a purifier that works with your room size.

Here’s a quick table to help with some top picks:

3. Control Humidity Levels

Keeping humidity in check is another biggie. You’re shooting for that sweet spot of 30% to 50%.

Too much moisture? It’s dehumidifier time. These handy tools suck up the extra moisture, stopping mold and dust mites in their tracks.

Check those humidity levels regularly to keep things comfy and allergy-free.

4. Adopt Regular Cleaning Routines

It’s not just about tidiness—it’s about health. Maintaining a clean environment can significantly reduce allergens in your home.

Stick to a routine to cut down on these allergens. Consistent cleaning habits help ensure that dust and other irritants do not build up over time.

Use hypoallergenic cleansers to keep the air clean. These products are designed to minimize allergic reactions and improve overall air quality.

Pay extra attention to places where dust quickly accumulates. Areas like under furniture, behind appliances, and on shelves can often be overlooked but are crucial for maintaining a healthy space.

A seasonal checklist keeps you on track. This tool helps ensure that every corner and cranny gets the care it deserves, promoting a healthier living environment.

Room-Specific Air Quality Tips

Bedrooms and Living Areas

In the bedroom, where we spend so much time, it’s vital to prioritize air quality. Start with allergen-proof bedding and pillows. These items are designed to keep dust mites and allergens away, creating a healthier sleeping environment.

Additionally, keeping your bedroom clutter-free is essential. Regularly vacuuming and dusting can significantly reduce the presence of dust and allergens.

Consider investing in a HEPA air purifier as well. This device can make a world of difference by capturing tiny allergens floating around, further improving the air quality in your bedroom.

Living areas can also be a dust haven. Keeping these spaces neat and tidy is crucial to help with air flow. A clean environment not only looks better but also contributes to better air quality.

In this part of the country, it is recommended to use an air purifier. Air purifiers help keep the air fresh and catch things you can’t see, such as dust particles and allergens. This can significantly improve the overall atmosphere in your living spaces.

Of course, regular vacuuming is essential. Using HEPA-filter vacuums is particularly important, as they trap allergens that normal vacuums may miss. This additional step can make a noticeable difference in reducing allergens and improving indoor air quality.

Kitchens and Bathrooms

Kitchens and bathrooms are tricky spots for air quality. Good ventilation is important in kitchens as it helps whisk away cooking odors and extra moisture.

Additionally, maintaining a cleaning schedule can help control allergens in these spaces.

One effective way to manage cleanliness is to wash your dishes every day to keep bacteria at bay.

It’s also essential to wipe down surfaces like countertops and sinks to prevent the spread of germs.

In bathrooms, turn on exhaust fans during showers to keep air quality high. This helps to remove excess moisture and prevent the buildup of humidity.

Additionally, a dehumidifier will keep moisture at bay and further prevent mold growth. By controlling humidity levels, you can create a healthier space.

Cleaning the surfaces regularly is also essential. This practice keeps mildew away and ensures a fresh environment, contributing to overall cleanliness and hygiene.

Basements and Attics

Basements and attics need love too. Check these areas for moisture problems regularly.

Moisture is a magnet for mold. Use dehumidifiers here to keep humidity between 30% and 50%. This reduces the presence of dust mites and mold.

Ventilation solutions are important for these areas to spend less time with stale air. Proper ventilation helps to circulate fresh air, reducing the buildup of pollutants and improving overall air quality.

Additionally, it is crucial to look out for pests and contaminants that can wreak havoc on air quality. These unwanted intruders can introduce allergens and toxins, further compromising the environment. Regular maintenance and monitoring can help mitigate these risks and ensure a healthier indoor atmosphere.

Pet Areas

For pet owners, pet allergen reduction is a must. One effective strategy is to groom pets frequently to reduce dander and hair. Regular grooming can significantly minimize the amount of allergens that accumulate in the home.

In addition to grooming, establishing cleaning rituals that focus specifically on areas where pets spend time is crucial. This helps manage allergens and keeps living spaces cleaner.

Creating pet-free zones in the home can also be beneficial. By designating certain areas as pet-free, you can reduce allergen exposure and create a more comfortable environment for those with allergies.

Manage Pet Allergens

Tackling pet dander is no small feat if you or anyone you live with is allergic. Pet hair may seem benign, but the dander it carries can cause significant allergic reactions in many individuals.

It’s important to understand that the effects of pet dander extend beyond just sneezing and itchy eyes. For some, it can lead to more serious health issues, impacting overall well-being.

So let’s figure out how to address this challenge effectively.

Understand Pet Dander Effects

It is essential to understand how pet dander impacts you in order to combat it effectively. Pet dander can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, making it crucial to take preventive measures.

One effective strategy is to use air purifiers with HEPA filters. These purifiers can capture up to 98% of airborne allergens, significantly improving indoor air quality.

In addition to air purifiers, keeping your home clean is vital. Regularly washing pet bedding and toys helps reduce the accumulation of dander and allergens.

You might also consider a professional duct cleaning. This service can help eliminate hidden dust and allergens in your home’s ventilation system, further reducing exposure to pet dander.

• Wash bedding and toys in hot water (130°F or more). Brush pets in an enclosed area, away from allergy sufferers. Wear a mask over your face while cleaning.

Reduce Allergen Levels

Establishing pet-free zones can be effective in reducing allergens. Choose a few rooms and keep them off-limits to your furry friends. This helps keep the air quality good in parts of your home.

Explain to your family members why these areas need to stay clean and pet-free. Ensure everyone understands the importance of maintaining these zones for better health and comfort.

Set up gates to keep pets out of these designated areas. This physical barrier will help reinforce the boundaries and prevent any accidental entry.

Additionally, clean these spaces frequently to minimize allergens. Regular cleaning will help maintain a healthy environment and reduce the presence of pet dander and other irritants.

• Use barriers like gates. Clean zones regularly. Educate family on importance.

Create Pet-Free Zones

When choosing furniture or bedding, opt for allergen-resistant materials. This choice helps keep exposure to allergens low and makes cleanup easier.

Consider airflow in the room as well. Good airflow can help reduce the accumulation of dust and allergens. Additionally, think about how easy it will be to clean the items you select when setting up your rooms.

To assist in your shopping, make a list of allergy-friendly items to look for when buying for your home. This list can include materials such as hypoallergenic pillows, dust mite-resistant mattress covers, and furniture made from non-toxic finishes.

• Allergen-resistant fabrics. Easy-to-clean surfaces. Solid designs for good air circulation.

Create Allergy-Friendly Home

Making your home allergy-friendly is simply about using the right materials. Think of fabrics such as microfiber or leather. Not only are they stylish, but they also repel dust mites and allergens.

In contrast, heavy fabrics and carpets attract dust and allergens like magnets. You want to stay away from them to maintain a healthier environment.

A good tip is to use allergen-resistant bedding and pillow covers. These can help improve your sleep by preventing dust mites from invading your sleeping space.

To make home shopping a breeze, create a checklist of allergen-resistant materials. This checklist will serve as a valuable tool to inform your purchases.

By focusing on allergen-resistant options, you can ensure that each item in your home contributes to a healthier living environment. This proactive approach can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce allergy-related issues.

Choose Allergen-Resistant Materials

Switching to natural cleaning products reduces chemical exposure. It’s not just about being eco-friendly; it’s about having better air quality at home. By using natural alternatives, you can minimize the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals on your health and the environment.

Teach your family the benefits of green cleaning. That way, everyone can contribute to maintaining a healthier living space. Involving your family in the process can foster a sense of responsibility and awareness about the impact of cleaning products.

You can even create a list of homemade cleaning solutions with natural ingredients such as vinegar and baking soda. These ingredients are not only effective but also safe for both your family and the environment.

Finally, review and adjust your cleaning methods with green objectives in mind. Regularly reassessing your practices ensures that you stay committed to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

Implement Green Cleaning Practices

Look out for common products that contribute to indoor air pollution. Many household items, such as cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and personal care products, can release harmful chemicals into the air.

Opt for low-chemical or non-toxic products for cleaning and personal care. These alternatives can help reduce the overall chemical exposure in your home, promoting a healthier environment for you and your family.

Educate your family on the dangers of synthetic air fresheners and cleaners. Understanding the potential risks associated with these products is crucial for making informed choices that benefit everyone’s health.

Keep a list of safe products to maintain a healthy home. Having a reference guide can make it easier to select non-toxic options and ensure that your living space remains free from harmful pollutants.

Reduce Chemical Exposure

To maintain good air quality throughout the year, it’s essential to establish a comprehensive plan. This plan should include regular monitoring of indoor air quality and the implementation of strategies to mitigate pollutants.

Additionally, booking regular HVAC checks is crucial. These checks ensure that air filtration and circulation systems are functioning optimally, which helps maintain a healthy indoor environment.

It’s also beneficial to track how the seasons influence indoor air quality. Different seasons can bring varying allergens and pollutants, so understanding these changes can help in adjusting your air quality management strategies accordingly.

Here’s a quick checklist to keep things in check:

• Maintain temperature between 68 F (20 C) and 72 F (22 C).

• Keep humidity below 50%

• Wash dishes daily

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter

• Encase bedding in dust-mite-proof covers

• Choose HEPA filters for air purifiers

• Regularly inspect HVAC components

• Use a 5% chlorine bleach solution for mold

• Wear a mask when cleaning mold

Year-Round Air Quality Maintenance

For allergy sufferers, managing air quality is paramount. Changing how you handle air quality based on the seasons helps keep things in check.

When pollen levels are high in spring, keep your windows closed to keep the allergens out. Consider installing HEPA filters in your HVAC systems. These filters capture microscopic particles that trigger allergic reactions.

Replace the filters every three months to keep them effective. Monitoring humidity levels is a good idea, too. Dust mites love moisture, so aim for humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This helps stop mold, too.

Seasonal Air Quality Management

To keep air clean all year, do regular checks around your home. Look for leaks or moisture that could lead to mold.

Make cleaning air ducts and vents a habit, as they can trap dust and other allergens. Having a calendar for these tasks helps you remember when to perform them.

If you have rooms with poor airflow, portable HEPA air cleaners can be a huge help. They’re perfect for getting that super-fine stuff that can sometimes slip through other types of filters.

• Routine Inspections: Check for leaks and moisture.

• Clean Air Ducts: Improves airflow.

• Portable HEPA Cleaners: For rooms with poor ventilation.

Regular Home Maintenance Practices

Simple lifestyle changes can make a huge difference. One effective change is to encourage everyone at home to wipe their shoes before coming inside or to use door mats. This small action can significantly reduce the amount of dirt and pollutants tracked into the house.

Additionally, teaching your family about the benefits of opening windows when possible can also improve indoor air quality. Fresh air helps dilute indoor pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be several times higher inside than outside.

To ensure everyone remembers their role in keeping the air clear, consider keeping a list of these habits. This can serve as a helpful reminder and encourage everyone to participate in maintaining a healthier living environment.

Lifestyle Adjustments for Better Air

Using air quality monitors helps you see what’s in your air. They can reveal pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Once you notice problems, come up with a strategy to address them. Tracking this data helps you see what’s working and what needs more attention.

Monitor Indoor Air Quality

Monitoring indoor air quality is a game changer for those with allergies. You can begin by using home testing kits to discover what’s floating in your air.

These kits are helpful for detecting pollutants such as dust mites and pet dander, or even radon. Follow the instructions closely for each kit to get spot-on results.

Accurate testing means you can address the right problems. This targeted approach can significantly improve your indoor environment and alleviate allergy symptoms.

Test for Pollutants Effectively

To truly understand your air quality, invest in some smart air quality monitors. These devices provide you with real-time information about what’s going on inside your environment.

Many monitors feature apps that break down air quality data in an easy-to-understand manner. This user-friendly approach allows you to grasp complex information quickly.

Additionally, you can set alerts for when things go south, meaning you’ll know when the air is less than fresh. This proactive feature helps you take action before the air quality worsens.

Here’s a quick list of things to look out for:

• Smart Air Quality Monitors: Provide real-time data

• Apps: Offer insights and alerts

• Checklist: Recommended devices for home use

Use Technology for Monitoring

Using technology doesn’t end there; monitoring is essential. You need a plan for those days when the air isn’t great.

Teach your family what poor air quality looks like. Make sure everybody knows the steps to quicken things up a bit.

This could include simple actions like opening windows to ventilate the space or using air cleaners equipped with asthma and allergy-friendly filters.

Respond to Poor Air Quality

Some folks are more affected by bad air quality than others. Kids and older adults, for example, require special consideration.

It is important to ensure that these vulnerable groups are in spaces with the best air possible.

Additionally, sharing information with your family can help everyone understand how to contribute to maintaining good air quality.

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Groups

Protect Children and Elderly

When considering air quality, it’s important to focus on those most at risk, such as young children and older adults. Understanding the specific challenges these groups face can help in creating a healthier environment.

Take time to learn about common allergens and the best ways to dodge them. This knowledge is crucial for minimizing exposure and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Talk to everyone about why it’s important to keep the house clean and fresh. This goes beyond simple dusting; it significantly reduces allergen levels, including pet dander, which is known to trigger asthma attacks.

Approximately 700,000 emergency visits in the U.S. Are due to asthma-related issues. This statistic highlights the importance of maintaining a clean living space to prevent such health crises.

Share advice on how to recognize allergy symptoms when they first appear. Early recognition allows for quick action if necessary, which can make a significant difference in managing health.

It’s also helpful to have educational materials on hand, such as booklets or flyers. These resources serve as good reminders for everybody about what steps to take in maintaining air quality and managing allergies.

Checklist for Vulnerable Groups:

• Vacuum and clean regularly to minimize dust and pet dander.

• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters.

• Keep windows closed during high pollen days.

• Avoid smoking indoors to reduce secondhand smoke exposure.

Educate Family on Allergen Avoidance

You really want to work closely with providers. They can develop a personalized plan for addressing allergies.

Share what you learn about air quality with doctors. This way, they can give better advice on treatments and strategies that work for your situation.

Keep a line of communication open with them on any changes or concerns. For example, rural kids in China who have been exposed to farm environments have a lower risk of asthma than urban kids.

They share such facts to help doctors get the bigger picture.

Collaborate with Healthcare Providers

Cleaning up air isn’t a one-off thing. It’s sort of an ongoing process. Keep your own indoor environment in check, and everything else will follow.

If you make small changes like these, they will add up. Here’s a final quick list of strategies to keep your home’s air clean:

• Use dehumidifiers to control moisture levels.

• Regularly change air filters in HVAC systems.

• Choose hypoallergenic bedding and clean it often.

Conclusion

Relax. Living with allergies can be quite challenging, but being proactive in controlling indoor air quality can help. With smart strategies and a little elbow grease, every room in your house can become a haven. Keeping on top of things with frequent checks and cleaning is essential. For pet lovers, tweaks here and there can make it possible to keep those fuzzballs close without fits of sneezing. Make your home an allergy-friendly haven year-round with the right tools and habits. Just remember, you’re not alone — lots of people are in the same boat, and they’ve had success with these tips. Want to take the next step? Consider these air quality strategies and help give your home a breath of fresh air. Reach out, share what works for you, and let’s make healthier living spaces a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does indoor air quality affect allergies?

Bad indoor air quality exacerbates allergies. Dust, mold, and pet dander are common triggers. By cleaning indoor air, it helps reduce these allergens and offers relief to allergy sufferers.

What are the most common indoor allergens?

Common indoor allergens include dust mites, pet dander, mold, and pollen. Regular cleaning and using air purifiers can help reduce their presence and alleviate allergy symptoms.

How can I improve indoor air quality?

Use HEPA filters, ventilate rooms often, and keep the humidity in check. Investing in a quality air purifier can also remove allergens from the air that contribute to poor air quality.

What are some room-specific air quality tips?

In bedrooms, utilize allergen-proof covers.

In kitchens, ventilate to lower cooking emissions.

For living areas, regularly clean carpets and upholstery to prevent dust accumulation.

How can I manage pet allergens in my home?

Groom pets frequently and wash their bedding regularly. Use HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners to capture pet dander. Establish pet-free zones to limit exposure in sensitive areas.

How do I create an allergy-friendly home?

Choose hard-surface flooring, use hypoallergenic bedding, and keep windows shut during peak pollen times. Frequent cleaning and air purifiers help keep allergens to a minimum.

Why is monitoring indoor air quality important?

Routine monitoring reveals sources of pollution and tracks the effectiveness of measures taken to improve air quality. It’s vital for a healthy living space, particularly for those with allergies or preexisting conditions.