Hay fever can be a real nightmare, we've got tips on getting a decent night's sleep

SLEEP WELL: Try and make your bedroom a pollen-free zone (Image: stock_colors/Getty)

Spring is here and it’s wonderful to see things starting to grow – unless you suffer from hay fever. As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, many people find themselves battling springtime allergies.

Around 30 types of pollen are responsible for hay fever, and it’s possible to be allergic to more than one type. Tree pollen alone affects around a quarter of people in the UK.

You might think that staying indoors offers relief, but pollen can infiltrate your home. The powdery granules stick to surfaces after wafting in through doors, windows, and even clothing and pet fur.

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Despite their small size, these airborne particles pack a big punch, triggering sneezing, nasal congestion, and discomfort. Over half of sufferers say that hay fever disrupts their sleep, so experts at Secret Linen Store have shared five tips on pollen-proofing your bedroom this spring:

1. Close windows during peak pollen times

When the temperatures begin to rise and the sun is shining, the temptation to open your bedroom window and let in fresh air is understandable. However, opening your window, especially in the morning, early evening and on windy days, can let pollen into your bedroom causing symptoms to worsen.

2. Change your clothes

Spring is one of the best time of year to get outside and enjoy the weather, but to prevent bringing pollen into your bedroom, have a quick shower after outdoor activities. It's also a good idea to change into fresh clothes and put the used ones in a closed linen bin.

3. Give pets a quick brush down

In the same way that pollen can cling to fabrics, it can also cling to pets' fur. Once your pet comes in from being outside, ensure you give them a brush down and wipe their paws, especially if you allow them in your bedroom and on your bed.

3. Create a barrier on your bed

Throwing a sheet over your duvet during the day, can help to protect your bed from pollen. Simply remove it before getting into bed at night.

2. Dry your bed linen indoors

There is typically more pollen in the air on warm, dry days and unfortunately, this is usually the best time for drying your bedding outside. It is easy for pollen to stick to your bedding which can lead to an increase in hay fever symptoms and cause sleepless nights.

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