Table 1.

Summary of allergens and environmental remediation strategies

Allergen	Source	Environmental remediation strategies
House dust mite	Woven materials: carpet/rugs,  pillows, mattresses, bedding, stuffed  animals and toys	First Level:  •Wash bedding weekly in hot water and dry in a heated dryer  •Encase pillows and mattresses (pore diameter <10 microns)  •Vacuum with a HEPA filter bag  •Keep humidity <50 %  •Remove stuffed animals and toys from bedroom Second Level:  •Remove upholstered furniture, drapery, carpeting or rugs Third Level:  •Move from a damp location such as a basement to a higher floor
Pets (cat and dog)	Furniture, carpet/rugs, and clothing	First Level:  •Remove pet from home  •Thoroughly clean upholstered furniture, walls, and carpet Second Level: If pet not removed from the home  •Remove pet from bedroom  •Aggressive cleaning of upholstered furniture, walls, and carpet  •Removal of upholstered furniture and carpet is ideal  •Encase mattresses and pillows (pore diameter <6 microns)  •Use a HEPA filter  •Washing pets may be helpful (wash dog twice weekly)
Pests (mouse and cockroach)	Mainly kitchen (highest level of allergens)	First Level:  •Inspect to detect hiding places and food sources  •Store food in sealed containers  •Remove clutter  •Professional extermination with pesticides and bait traps  •Seal holes or cracks in the home to prevent re-infestation
Mold	Humid environments	First Level:  •Locate mold contaminated items and remove them  •Reduce humidity to <50 %  •Clean moist areas  •Repair leaks