If you were hoping your allergy symptoms would go into hibernation once Old Man Winter blew in, you might be out of luck. If you suffer from perennial allergic rhinitis — or year-round allergies — here’s your winter allergy action plan.
Simple Tips for Winter Allergy Relief
Dust Mite Allergies
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that live off of dead human skin and pet dander and are found anywhere dust particles collect.1 Even if you’re a neat freak, it’s impossible to rid your home entirely of this common indoor allergen, but you can find a few quick tips to help reduce your exposure below.
Ditch The Dust
- Put allergen barrier covers on your mattresses, box springs and pillows. When traveling, pack a couple covers for the pillows at your destination.
- Wash all bedding and blankets once a week in hot water (at least 54°C). Be sure to check the washing instructions first.
- Diminish moisture-loving dust mites by using a dehumidifier to keep the humidity in your home below 50%.1
For more dust allergy tips, read The Dirt on Dust Mites.
Pet Dander Allergies
It’s not the pet’s fur that causes your allergic reaction. It’s the proteins found in the animal’s dander (dead skin cells), saliva or urine. These particles are so light that they can stick to your shoes, clothes and hair.2
Tame Pet Allergies
- Remove shoes at the door, toss clothes in the laundry and shower upon returning home. No time for a shower? At least wash your hands and face.2
- Sweep floors and vacuum carpets weekly with either a double-layered micro filter bag or a HEPA filter to trap pet allergens.2
Mould Allergies
Indoor mould sheds spores all year and is found lurking in damp spots, such as basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, attics, refrigerators and windowsills. Since mould thrives in damp spaces, mould allergy symptoms may be more common during the summer months when it’s hot and humid. But they can be prevalent year-round in warm climates and wherever moisture builds up in your home.3
Control Moisture-Loving Mould
- Dry areas that get wet frequently, such as countertops and front-loading washing machines. And be sure to fix leaks quickly.3
- Open a window or use an exhaust fan over the stove when cooking and in the bathroom when showering to remove extra humidity.4
- Get an inexpensive hygrometer (humidity monitor) at the hardware store to measure your home’s moisture levels.4 When humidity levels rise above 50%, use a dehumidifier.
Pollen Allergies
If you live in a warmer climate or are traveling to one, milder temperatures may mean pollen allergies stick around for the winter.5
Put Pollen In Its Place
- Keep an eye on pollen levels in your area, so you know what to expect.
- On days when the pollen count is especially high, avoid outdoor activities if possible.
- Remove your shoes, shower and change your clothes after coming inside so you don’t track pollen in. At the very least, wash your hands and face.5
Could It Be a Cold?
Wondering if your seasonal sniffles are winter allergies or a cold?
References
- Mayo Clinic. Dust mite allergy: Diagnosis & treatment. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic. Pet allergy: Symptoms & causes. 2025.
- Cleveland Clinic. Mold allergy. 2025.
- Mayo Clinic. Mold Allergy. 2025.
- American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI). Outdoor Allergens. 2023.
- Portnoy, J. et al. Environmental assessment and exposure control of dust mites. 2013.
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