As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, we naturally spend more time indoors. But for those who suffer from dust mite allergies or other indoor allergies, autumn can be a challenging season. Closed windows and heating systems create a perfect environment for allergens, making clean, healthy home practices more important than ever.

With a few intentional changes, you can reduce triggers, improve autumn indoor air quality, and create a home that feels like a true sanctuary for the colder months ahead.

1. Deep Clean with Care

Before sealing up the house for winter, give your living spaces a thorough refresh. Dust and vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum to trap allergens like dust mites and pet dander. Don't forget less obvious areas like curtains, vents, and upholstered furniture.

Wash bedding in hot water to help kill dust mites, and consider replacing old pillows that may harbor allergens. Choosing non-toxic bedding helps ensure you're not adding chemical irritants on top of natural ones.

2. Breathe Easy Indoors

Once windows are closed, airflow becomes limited and allergens can build up quickly. Replace HVAC filters regularly, clean vents, and open windows on milder days to bring in fresh air.

Humidity control is also essential: dust mites thrive in humid environments. Keep indoor humidity between 40–50% to limit their growth while still maintaining comfort for your skin and respiratory system.

3. Layer with Healthy Comfort

Colder nights call for cozy blankets and heavier bedding. But synthetic textiles can trap heat, irritate sensitive skin, and may even worsen allergy symptoms by releasing microfibers into the air.

Instead, opt for breathable, natural fabrics. AIZOME's Regenerative Cotton Blanket is an allergy-friendly blanket designed for comfort without compromise: free from toxic dyes and woven from cotton grown through regenerative farming that supports both soil health and your wellbeing. It's a gentle choice for those with skin sensitivities and a healthier way to stay warm through autumn and winter.

4. Entryway and Outdoor Prep

Your home's first defense against allergens starts at the door. Set up an entryway system with mats, hooks, and baskets for shoes and outerwear to reduce the amount of pollen, dust, and outdoor pollutants tracked indoors.

5. Rest Well, Heal Well

Allergy symptoms are often worst at night. Creating a clean, non-toxic sleep environment makes a big difference in how well you rest and recover. Wash bedding weekly, reduce clutter that collects dust, and ensure your mattress and pillows are allergen-safe.

Final Thought

Autumn doesn't have to mean worsening allergies. With a little preparation, from cleaning strategies to thoughtful fabric choices, your home can become a true refuge from seasonal triggers.

Creating an allergy-friendly home is about more than just cleaning. It's about choosing materials that support your health naturally, without adding chemical irritants or synthetic fibers that can make symptoms worse.