Live Christmas trees can cause an allergic reaction in certain individuals who may be sensitive to the mould and dust often found in branches and foliage. The number of mould spores continues to rise once the live tree is placed indoors, making the Christmas season nearly unbearable for those with particularly sensitive allergies.
Other known causes of Christmas tree allergies are tree sap, pollen, and terpenes, a compound that gives pine trees their characteristic scent. Chemicals used at Christmas tree farms may also cause skin and eye irritation.
The Safer Choice: Artificial Christmas Trees
Homeowners who want to keep their living spaces clean and free of allergens may easily opt for artificial Christmas trees. There are extremely realistic artificial Christmas trees that have the same look and feel as a real tree.
However, like most decorations, whether on display or stored over an extended period, an artificial Christmas tree can also become the home of allergens, namely dust mites. Fortunately, proper care of your artificial Christmas tree can avoid this.
Common Causes of Christmas Tree-Related Allergies
There are several factors that can trigger an allergic attack related to Christmas trees:
Mould Spores
Virtually invisible to the naked eye, moulds thrive where there is moisture. Spores latch themselves to real Christmas trees due to the moisture build-up on their leaves and branches. Mold spores can also be found floating in open spaces and can be carried indoors by attaching themselves to shoes and clothing.
Terpenes
These chemical compounds are known for giving pine trees their natural scent and can also cause irritation in some individuals. Terpenes are commonly used in home fragrances, solvents, and cleaning supplies, so be sure to double-check the label before purchasing one of these products if you have tree allergy sufferers in your home.
Dust Mites
Dust mites are among the most persistent causes of allergies, no matter the season. These microscopic allergens accumulate in storage and become more cumbersome when the air is damp.
Insect Droppings
Pests can inhabit your live tree or artificial Christmas tree storage space and leave droppings that aggravate allergies.
Symptoms of Tree-Related Allergies
Once a person develops an allergic reaction caused by a real or an artificial Christmas tree, he or she may experience one or several of the following symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Itchy eyes and nose
- Dark circles under the eyes
Although most allergic reactions are unpleasant, they are generally not life-threatening. If a person suffers from a severe allergic attack, seek medical attention immediately.
How To Prevent Tree-Related Allergies
Like many other forms of irritation, Christmas tree-related allergies can be prevented through thoughtful preparation. Allergy sufferers who are especially sensitive to mould, pollen, and terpenes should typically avoid using fresh trees and other live greenery and consider switching to an artificial Christmas tree instead.
If you are susceptible to allergies but still prefer a real Christmas tree instead of an artificial one, remember to thoroughly shake the live Christmas tree outdoors to eliminate the dust particles, pollen, and other debris it may be carrying before bringing it indoors. Here are a few more steps you can take to help reduce any causes of irritation.
- Use a leaf blower to remove pollen and mould spores from the foliage of live Christmas trees. Remember to wear a surgical mask to prevent yourself from inhaling loose particles in the air.
- Consider spraying or wiping down foliage with water mixed with a small amount of bleach, then thoroughly drying in the sun before bringing the tree inside your house. This can help kill mould spores and the scent of terpenes. However, skip this step if your pets might lick or gnaw at your tree.
- Remove your live tree as soon as the celebrations are over to lessen the risk of exposure indoors.
- After the Christmas season, store artificial Christmas trees properly in a dry, cool space. Placing the tree sections in a box, tree storage bag, or sealed plastic bag will keep dust from accumulating on your tree while it is in storage.
- Check your artificial tree every 4-5 months to ensure insects and mice haven’t found a way into the storage area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we answer common questions about Christmas tree allergies.
Can Christmas Trees Cause Allergies?
Yes, Christmas trees can cause allergies. Mould, dust, pollen, and compounds like terpenes in the tree’s scent can trigger allergic reactions.
Can Artificial Christmas Trees Cause Allergies?
If left to accumulate dust and mould in storage, artificial Christmas trees can trigger allergies in those who are sensitive to them. Make sure you thoroughly wipe down and dry your artificial tree before displaying.
How Can I Reduce Christmas Tree Allergies?
Shifting to a realistic, high-quality artificial Christmas tree allows you to celebrate the season without the stress and discomfort of pollen or other allergies.
Having a Christmas tree allergy doesn't mean that you can't enjoy the season just like everybody else. By using our list of tips and tricks to properly clean and prepare your tree prior to bringing it into your home, you can still have a festive and memorable Christmas celebration without the worry of extra sneezing or sniffles. Shop our selection of premium artificial Christmas trees by clicking the button below. If you want more decorating tips and guides, visit our Resource Centre.
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