Tackling Late Summer Allergies: How Smart Laundry Practices Can Aid Care Homes and Hospitals

Late summer, particularly in September, is a challenging time for allergy sufferers. Allergens like ragweed pollen, mould spores, and dust mites peak, causing discomfort for many. This issue is especially pronounced in care homes and hospitals, where residents and patients with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. While medical treatments alleviate symptoms, effective laundry practices play a critical role in controlling allergen exposure from linens, clothing, and bedding.

Common Late Summer Allergens and Their Impact

During late summer, allergens such as ragweed pollen surge, typically starting in late August and continuing through September. Ragweed is one of the most common causes of hay fever, a type of allergic rhinitis. In addition to pollen, mould spores thrive in humid conditions, which can affect clothing and linens. Dust mites, which flourish in warm environments, also add to the allergen mix, exacerbating symptoms for many individuals.

In healthcare settings, managing these allergens is critical because patients and residents often spend considerable time indoors, increasing their exposure to potential allergens. Proper laundry practices help prevent these allergens from accumulating and worsening symptoms.

1. Hot Water Washes and High-Heat Drying for Allergen Removal

One of the most effective ways to eliminate allergens is by using hot water washes and thermal disinfection cycles. Washing items like bedding and clothing at temperatures of at least 130°F (55°C) helps kill dust mites and neutralise allergens like mould and pollen. For healthcare environments, thermal disinfection cycles add an extra level of sanitization, ensuring that linens are thoroughly cleaned and any remaining allergens or bacteria are eliminated.

Following up with high-heat drying adds further protection, making sure that any lingering allergens are effectively removed. This process is especially important during the peak allergy period in late summer and early autumn, as it ensures that facilities maintain a safe, allergen-free environment for their residents and patients.

2. Hypoallergenic Detergents for Sensitive Skin

While high-temperature washing is essential, selecting the right detergent is also vital. Hypoallergenic detergents, which are fragrance-free, are preferable in healthcare settings as they minimise skin irritation while still effectively removing allergens. Standard detergents, especially those with added fragrances, can leave residues that trigger allergic reactions.

In care homes and hospitals, residents may already have sensitive skin or pre-existing conditions. Using allergen-friendly detergents ensures that linens and clothing are thoroughly cleaned without causing additional discomfort.

3. Regular Laundry Cycles to Reduce Allergen Build-Up

Consistent laundering routines are crucial in controlling allergen levels. During peak allergy season, items such as bedding, towels, and curtains should be washed frequently to prevent allergen accumulation. In hospitals and care homes, linens should ideally be laundered daily or multiple times per week during late summer to minimise residents’ exposure to pollen, dust mites, and mould spores.

A strict laundry schedule is particularly important for individuals with chronic allergies or respiratory conditions, as these allergens can aggravate their symptoms. Regular laundry cycles help keep the indoor environment clean and allergen-free, contributing to better health outcomes.

4. Storing Clean Laundry to Avoid Recontamination

Proper storage of clean laundry is essential to prevent recontamination by airborne allergens. For care facilities, this means keeping linens and clothing in sealed, climate-controlled areas to reduce exposure to pollen, dust mites, and other allergens. Regular cleaning of storage rooms also helps ensure that these areas remain hygienic.

5. Training Staff on Effective Allergen Control

Ensuring that staff are well-trained in proper allergen management is key to maintaining a safe environment. Housekeeping and laundry staff should be educated on the importance of using hot water, thermal disinfection cycles, and hypoallergenic detergents. Training should also include best practices for handling linens and minimising contamination risk.

Conclusion: Effective Laundry Practices as the First Line of Defense

As late summer allergies peak in September, care homes and hospitals must adopt robust strategies to protect residents and patients. By implementing effective laundry practices—such as hot water washing, high-heat drying, hypoallergenic detergents, and consistent laundering schedules—these facilities can significantly reduce allergen exposure. Taking proactive measures in laundry management ensures a cleaner, safer environment for all, allowing patients and residents to breathe easier as they transition from summer to fall.