Slideshow: Home Allergy Quiz - Is Your Home Allergy-Proof?

Take the Home Allergy Quiz

The substances that trigger allergies are called allergens. Examples include pollens, dust mites, molds, dander, and certain foods. How much do you know about allergy-proofing your home? Take this eMedicineHealth quiz and test your knowledge.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 1

1. True or false?
Damp dusting using a dampened cloth or an oiled mop will minimize the distribution of dust through the air.

True:

Damp dusting using a dampened cloth or an oiled mop will minimize the distribution of dust through the air.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 2

2. True or false?
Beds should be placed near air vents for good air circulation.

False:

Space heaters are preferred over hot air ducts. In homes with forced air heat, use filters or damp cheesecloth over inlets to reduce dust circulation and change them every two weeks. Consult your physician about air purifiers. It's best to keep beds away from air vents.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 3

3. True or false?
Grasses, weeds, and trees tend to pollinate during the late afternoon and early evening.

False:

Grasses, weeds, and trees tend to pollinate during the early morning hours. Install central air conditioning or window units to avoid pollen exposure. Keep windows closed, especially during periods of high pollen counts and windy conditions. Sleep with the windows closed.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 4

4. True or false?
Allergen-proof encasings should be used for pillows, mattresses, and box springs. Tape over zippers to help prevent leaks.

True:

Use allergen-proof encasings for pillows, mattresses, and box springs. Tape over zippers to help prevent leaks. Vacuum all casings frequently. Store nothing under the bed.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 5

5. True or false?
When choosing furnishings, it is best to go with wood, leather, vinyl, or rubberized canvas furniture and avoid upholstered pieces.

True:

When choosing furnishings, it is best to go with wood, leather, vinyl, or rubberized canvas furniture and avoid upholstered pieces. Upholstery easily traps allergens and is much harder to clean. You might try washable slipcovers on existing upholstered furniture.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 6

6. True or false?
Venetian blinds and mini-blinds should be used to allergy-proof your home.

False:

Install roll-up washable cotton or synthetic window shades. Avoid venetian blinds, mini-blinds, and pleated shades.

Home Allergy Quiz - Question 7

7. True or false?
Foam rubber should be used to avoid trapping moisture which promotes mold and dust mite growth.

False:

Use Dacron or other synthetics for pillows. Avoid feathers or foam rubber, which traps moisture and promotes mold and dust mite growth.

More Reading on Allergies

• Indoor Allergens
• Allergic Reaction
• Food Allergy
• Drug Allergy
• Eye Allergies
• 10 Common Allergy Triggers