Drying Laundry Indoors May Aggravate Allergies

Drying clothes indoors could pose a health hazard to those predisposed to asthma, hay fever and other allergies.

According to a recent study it was found that drying clothes indoors could produce moisture contributing to the growth of harmful moulds and dust mites inside homes.

The study, involving 100 homes, was conducted by the Mackintosh Environmental Architecture Research Unit in Glasgow, UK. Lead researcher Rosalie Menon and her team found that about 87 percent of the homes aired their laundry indoors - in their bedrooms and even in their living rooms - during winter, resulting in moisture levels high enough to promote the growth of dust mites and mould spores. And these allergens are capable of causing lung infections in those with a weak immune system.

It may not be possible to completely eliminate dust mites as it has a ubiquitous presence. They are capable of acting like allergens and cause allergic reactions including itching, cold and sneezing. They could also cause throat, ear and sinus infections. Generally, moulds do not affect people, but they are capable of causing infections in those who are asthmatic or immune-compromised.

The research, sponsored by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, was the first of its kind that made an effort to find out the effects of drying laundry indoors.

In winter many households are left with little choice but to dry their laundry inside their homes as their houses lack specific spaces for drying clothes. The researchers are committed to incorporating independently heated and ventilated drying areas into new housings - much like the airing cupboards of older times.

Source-Medindia