Peak season for house dust mites
Caution: house dust mites
House dust mites make up a large proportion of our household dust, hence their name. There are around 1000 mites in a teaspoonful of bedroom dust. They feed on animal and human skin scales and feel particularly at home in carpets, upholstered furniture and beds. House dust mites can be found in every home and are a problem for allergy sufferers all year round. However, during the heating season, the mite faeces, which carry the allergens, dry out more quickly and are swirled through the air, increasing the burden. Not least because the windows are also closed.
A remedy
It is impossible to keep a room completely free of mites. But you can reduce them. Regular cleaning is highly recommended. Vacuuming at least once or twice a week - preferably with a HEPA filter - as well as dusting with a damp cloth and mopping the floors is a good idea.
House dust mites like it warm and damp. That's why they feel particularly at home in our beds. It is advisable to wrap mattresses in mite-proof covers and to use mite-proof covers for pillows and duvets, called encasings, for example with the Allergy Seal of Quality.
Arachnids do not like cool temperatures. In winter, a room temperature of less than 21° Celsius is ideal. A cooler temperature in the bedroom is also good for a restful night's sleep. Room humidity should not exceed 50 per cent. It is important to air the rooms two or three times a day for 5 to 10 minutes.
For more information and tips, see House dust mite allergy on aha.ch
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Fragrance-Free Day Switzerland
Fragrances are part of our everyday lives for example in cosmetics, washing and cleaning products. However, many people are unaware that at least 20% of the Swiss population is sensitised to at least one contact allergen. Fragrances are often involved and can trigger contact allergies and irritation. Fragrance-Free Day will take place for the first time on 1 February 2026 and is being launched jointly by aha! Allergy Centre Switzerland and Service Allergie Suisse. It draws attention to the health effects of fragrances and gives advice on choosing fragrance-free products. You can find more information (in German or French) on aha.ch.
When buying cosmetics, detergents, or cleaning products, look out for products with the Allergy Seal of Quality. This seal confirms that the products have been rigorously tested and are suitable for sensitive skin. Find your products.
A great start to the day
A wholesome breakfast provides the ideal foundation for an active day. A simple and quick-to-prepare muesli is the perfect solution. The muesli range with the Allergy Seal of Quality is gluten-free and largely wheat-free, offering a wide variety of options. These include, for example, an organic crunchy muesli with nuts or chocolate, as well as a lactose- and gluten-free Karma Power Blueberry muesli or a vegan, gluten-free Karma Cacao Protein Porridge.
To the products
Great weather, but dangerous for your skin
As good as the sun is, its rays get under your skin. If you want reliable protection against sunburn, you should use a sunscreen even in winter. Products with the Allergy Seal of Quality are ideal for sensitive skin: free from perfume, fragrance and from the 26 most common allergenic substances – perfect for the whole family. Discover the right products.
