How to Fight Winter Allergies: Tips for the Cold Season

Why are allergies common in winter?

Watery eyes, stuffy noses or breathing problems are not only triggered by colds, but also by allergies. Many people associate the allergy season with spring and summer, because pollen is a common allergen during these seasons. However, allergy symptoms are also common in winter. 

As soon as the temperature drops, we spend significantly more time at home, with the windows closed to keep heat in. As a result, allergens such as dust mites, pet hair or mould spores can accumulate quickly. In addition, heating systems heat the air without adding any humidity, which dries out the air indoors. This irritates the mucous membranes and can increase winter allergy symptoms. 

How do allergies develop in winter?

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to substances that are harmless. Wondering which allergies occur in winter? Typical triggers are residues left by house dust mites in mattresses, carpets or upholstered furniture, as well as animal hair or mould in damp areas. 

These tiny particles enter the mucous membranes of the nose and bronchi when breathing, where they trigger a defensive reaction. The immune system releases messenger substances like histamine, which causes allergy symptoms like sneezing, itching and watery eyes. 

Allergies in winter: symptoms

Many sufferers initially confuse the symptoms of winter allergies with a common cold. But allergies in winter and symptoms of colds can be clearly distinguished – normal colds usually subside after a few days, while allergic reactions often last for weeks and occur repeatedly. 

The most common symptoms of winter allergies include: 

• Stuffy or runny nose, or persistent sniffling that doesn't go away. 

• Watery, itchy or red eyes, especially in the morning after getting up. 

• Breathing problems or coughing, especially when in contact with house dust or pet hair. 

• Itching in the throat or on the skin is a reaction to mites or mould spores. 

• Poor sleep and fatigue due to blocked airways. 

All of these symptoms are clear signs of an allergy in winter. If you regularly notice these symptoms, you should not dismiss them as a cold. Seek medical advice, especially if you experience long-lasting or increasingly severe symptoms. 

What helps with winter allergies?

Winter allergies cannot be completely avoided, but you can significantly reduce your exposure by taking care of your indoor air quality.  

These tips help prevent winter allergies: 

• Daily ventilation prevents mould, as well as dry and humid air. 

• Washing bed linen regularly (at least every ten days) at 60°C kills dust mites. 

• Cleaning carpets, mattresses and upholstered furniture with a powerful vacuum cleaner captures dust and pet hair to create a hygienic home. 

• Keeping humidity between 40% and 60% stops the air from drying out. Check the humidity with a hygrometer and use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity. 

• Using medications such as antihistamines or nasal sprays can help with acute symptoms – consult with your doctor first. 

If you follow these measures, you can noticeably alleviate allergies in winter and enjoy the cosy season much more. 

Why indoor air quality is crucial for beating winter allergies

In winter, allergies caused by dust mites, animal hair or mould spores are most common, because poor ventilation indoors means these allergens accumulate more quickly. Improving and maintaining indoor air quality is one of the most important factors for your well-being, because clean air can significantly reduce the prevalence of these allergens and reduce allergy symptoms.  

How can you improve the quality of your indoor air?

In addition to regular ventilation, thorough cleaning routines and Dyson's purifying technology make everyday life easier. Dyson's range of air treatment machines automatically filter allergens and pollutants from the air to create a clean indoor climate.

The best air purifiers for allergies in winter

Dyson's air purifiers combine powerful HEPA-13 filtration technology with effective design. They remove 99.95% of microscopic particles and pollutants, helping to reduce the impact of winter allergies significantly. Discover Dyson's intelligently engineered air purifiers, designed for keeping your indoor air humidified and hygienic.

Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Formaldehyde BP04 Purifying fan – our quietest, most powerful air purifier

The advanced HEPA-13 filtration removes pollutants, allergens, and odours. The device automatically captures 3 times more nitrogen (NO₂) and breaks down formaldehyde. Thanks to Dyson's cone aerodynamics, two air streams are directed through the room at high speed, which ensures efficient air purification even in large rooms, with less noise. Long-lasting filters guarantee high performance with less maintenance – we recommend replacing the HEPA filter after 5 years and the activated carbon filter every 2 years. 

Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool PH2 De-NOx Purifying humidifying fan – air purifier with 3-in-1 function

A fan, air purifier and fan heater in one. This device heats indoor air in winter and provides cool airflow in summer. The fully sealed, three-stage filtration system removes 99.5% of ultra-fine particles, odours and gases, and breaks down formaldehyde. The new potassium carbonate filter absorbs 50% more nitrogen dioxide. HEPA and potassium carbonate filters can be changed easily and quickly.

Control your Dyson air purifier smartly: With the MyDyson™ app, you can monitor the air quality in your home at any time, see real-time reports, set schedules and more. What are you waiting for? Combat your allergy in winter and create a clean, allergen-free environment in your home.

Which air purifier is right for me?

Whether it's summer or winter, find the right air purifier for your home here.