Drying Laundry Outside in a Heatwave May Worsen Allergies—And Sleep

The summer sun brings a lot of fun, but there are several instances when it is crucial to be mindful of it—including when hanging laundry out to dry. It is especially important for people with allergies that bedding should not be left outside to dry during heat waves.

Why It Matters

“During periods of high pollen counts, bedsheets, pillowcases and blankets left to dry outdoors can collect pollen grains,” explained Laura Bojarskaitė, a researcher with the University of Oslo. “Bringing those sheets into bed means you’re introducing allergens directly into the environment where you spend seven to nine hours every night, potentially prolonging exposure and worsening symptoms while you sleep.”

This can negatively impact your sleep.

The Link Between Allergy Symptoms and Sleep

Bojarskaitė noted that hay fever can disrupt sleep, with symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing and itchy eyes. In turn, poor sleep can make allergy symptoms more difficult to manage.

“This creates a vicious cycle during allergy season,” she said. “Nasal congestion is particularly problematic because it increases mouth breathing and sleep fragmentation, reducing the amount of restorative sleep.”

Research has also shown that allergies have been linked to poorer sleep quality, increased nighttime awakenings and greater daytime sleepiness.

Personalized Treatment Plans for Allergies

If allergies are disrupting your summer fun, the team at Willamette ENT is here to help. We will work with you to identify which allergens are causing your symptoms and recommend treatment to relieve them. Schedule an appointment today to get started.