LOS ANGELES (KABC) — While the delightful aroma of a fresh Christmas tree and scented candles is often synonymous with the holiday season, they might bring along some unwelcome guests like dust and mold that could irritate your nose.
The enchanting scent of pine that fills your home can quickly turn sour if you’re prone to allergies during this festive time.
Some tree vendors, such as Mr. Jingles Christmas Trees in Hollywood, offer hypoallergenic options. Their Nordmann firs boast a thick, waxy coating that effectively traps allergens and limits the emission of fragrant oils.
Experts, however, point out that true pine allergies are relatively rare. The real culprits are usually the additional elements that accompany the tree.
“Trees can bring in weed pollen, mold, and tiny critters,” explained Dr. DeVon Preston, an allergist and immunologist with the Cleveland Clinic. “Bringing a tree indoors without shaking, washing, or cleaning it can significantly increase the risk of introducing mold and other pollens into your home environment.”
Dr. Preston advises that whether your tree is real or artificial, wiping it down can help minimize the allergens lurking within the branches. The same care should be applied to any decorations that have been stored away.
“The ornaments, yeah, we dust them down every year,” said Raha Sharaflari of Hollywood, who suffers from seasonal allergies. That doesn’t stop her from enjoying her favorite: a Noble fir.
“Last year, it was up for a while, but I love the tree, I love the feel, so I try to keep it up for as long as I can,” she said.
When it comes to real trees, Preston said be mindful of how long you keep them up after the holidays.
“The longer you keep it in the home, the longer the mold has to grow and release more spores, so I tend to recommend that, once the season’s over, get rid of your trees.”
Allergists also recommend running an air purifier near your tree to help catch anything you miss.
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