Cape Town is a city full of allergy sufferers. Many residents are sensitive to dust mites (more than 50%), grass pollen (46.6%) and pet dander (40.1%), according to a 2025 UCT study.
Seasonal allergy sufferers won’t be surprised to hear that climate change is contributing to a spike in grass pollen counts.
But while most allergic symptoms are debilitating, some allergens can trigger potentially-deadly asthma attacks.
The best way to manage allergies is through a multifaceted approach, working with a healthcare provider and taking measures to reduce exposure. Creating allergy-free zones in your home is one of the first steps to limiting exposure.
Common allergy triggers in the home
Allergens are airborne, microscopic and cover most indoor surfaces. Some, like pollen, are seasonal and brought into the home underfoot, through windows and doors, and on pets’ paws and fur.
All animals consistently shed hair, feathers and skin cells, so pet owners are exposed to high levels of allergenic dander.
Mould spores are prevalent in high-humidity areas, like bathrooms and kitchens, as mould thrives in damp conditions. It’s often hidden under carpets, in walls and above ceilings.
Dust mites are equally insidious, settling in the nooks and crannies of furniture, mattresses, curtains and blinds.
Normal household activities – sitting, turning in bed, and opening and closing curtains – disturb these allergens and disperse them into the air.
Poor indoor air quality causes spluttering, sneezing and red, irritated eyes, and is directly linked to asthma and other respiratory diseases.
The key to reducing exposure to allergens is to maintain a high level of cleanliness. Deep cleaning – especially with the use of high heat – significantly reduces allergen concentrations.
Why regular vacuuming isn’t enough
Regular vacuuming and surface wiping removes visible dust, dirt and stains, but doesn’t eliminate bacteria, allergens and deep-seated grime.
Vacuums with standard filters remove pet hair and other large particles but release smaller allergens back into the air.
Regular professional deep cleaning is needed to tackle hidden allergens. Techniques involve using high-strength cleaning equipment, and specially formulated solvents and detergents, to penetrate deep into mattresses, curtaining, upholstery and carpeting.
Dust, dirt and contaminants are lifted and removed from deep within the fibre or fabric. High-powered vacuums fitted with HEPA filters can capture and trap more than 99% of bacteria, pollen, mould spores and microscopic particles.
Professional cleaning methods that reduce allergens
Professional cleaning services use a range of techniques to reduce allergen exposure, such as the methods outlined below.
Hot-water extraction and steam cleaning
This deep-cleaning technique is particularly effective at eliminating dust mites and bugs from mattresses.
It uses hot water to flush dirt, dust and allergens out of carpets and soft furnishings, steam to kill pests, and detergents to leave surfaces clean and fresh.
High-powered HEPA vacuum systems
With a combination of strong suction and fine, micro-particle HEPA filters, high-powered HEPA vacuum systems trap dust, pollen and other allergy triggers.
Particles are deposited in the vacuum’s bin or bag and easily disposed of. It’s one of the best methods for boosting indoor air quality.
Hypoallergenic cleaning solutions vs. chemical irritants
If you suffer from allergies, hypoallergenic cleaning solutions should be your only choice. These cleaning materials don’t contain harsh chemicals, and are formulated to be safe to use.
Cleaning with hypoallergenic solutions significantly reduces the risk of developing skin irritations, allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
Chemical detergents eliminate germs, and clean and sanitise surfaces. However, they’re known skin irritants that release toxic fumes that comprise air quality.
Drying techniques to prevent mould growth
Humidity and moisture exacerbate mould infestations, so carpets, upholstery and soft furnishings must be air- or sun-dried after cleaning.
Open windows and doors to allow free airflow, manage room temperatures, and use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture to prevent mould growth.
Air conditioning and asthma
Asthma sufferers are especially sensitive to mould spores and dust mites. Regular floor-to-ceiling deep cleaning, coupled with air conditioning (filters must be regularly cleaned), improves air quality and can prevent the onset of asthma attacks.
Vacuums that use high-efficiency filters to trap particles are essential, as is the use of gentle, odour-free hypoallergenic cleaners.
Humidity levels should be maintained at between 30% and 60% to discourage mould growth and mite infestations. Changes to indoor temperatures should be kept under 5°C.
Creating designated allergy-free zones in your home
Simple changes in the home can help create a healthy and comfortable environment.
Remove clutter from all bedrooms by donating unwanted books, and storing games and soft toys in sealable plastic bins. Replace upholstered furniture with items made from wood, UPVC or covered shiny leather.
Avoid carpets, especially fitted ones, and choose smooth hard wood, tiled or vinyl flooring.
Replace heavy drapes with washable curtains. Ensure pillow cases and mattress covers are made from hypoallergenic materials.
Keep pets out of bedrooms, and create a storage area for shoes at the front door.
Establish a cleaning schedule targeting different rooms. Focus on the hard-to-reach places – windowsills and doors, under furniture, on top of ceiling fans and in cupboards.
Use a professional cleaning service every three to six months.
These useful resources will help you create allergy-free zones in your home:
- Allergy-Proof Your Home
- Guide for Reducing Allergens and Irritants in the Home
- Allergy- and Asthma-Proof Your Home
- How to Create an Allergy-Free Floor Plan.
The role of curtain, upholstery and mattress cleaning
Allergen accumulation can reach unhealthy, even dangerous, levels in curtains, upholstery and mattresses. It’s crucial to shake out or vacuum these items, along with any fitted carpets and rugs, twice a week.
During the pollen season, daily vacuuming is necessary.
Light curtains can be machine washed on a seasonal basis. However, if you want to create an allergen-free home, the services of a professional cleaning team is recommended.
When to schedule professional cleaning for maximum benefit
A good time to call in professionals is during the Cape Town pollen season, which runs from August to March, with pollen counts peaking in September.
If your home is susceptible to mould growth, a pre-winter clean can reduce indoor exposure to mould spores.
Builders and renovators should wait until a project is completed before giving the home a professional clean.
Additional tips for maintaining an asthma-friendly home
Humidity control
Ensure your home is adequately ventilated, leaks and damp areas are addressed, and indoor humidity is 60% or below to reduce the risk of mould growth.
Air purifier placement
Place an air purifier on a raised surface away from walls, close all doors and run it on auto-mode to circulate purified air.
Hypoallergenic cleaning products
Use hypoallergenic cleaning products, especially if you, or a family member, has asthma. They are fragrance-free, usually eco-friendly and emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Mattress encasements
Use mattresses covers to prevent dust mites, mould spores and other allergens from making their home in your bed.
Work with a healthcare provider
Work with your GP or physician to identify allergy-triggers, create a safer home environment, and develop a personalised treatment plan.
The following resources emphasise the importance of consulting a healthcare professional when dealing with asthma and other allergies:
A clean home is the starting point to a healthier home environment
Creating an allergy-free home requires a multifaceted approach, but a clean home is the starting point. Professional and routine home cleaning are essential.