In the bedroom:

1. Cover mattresses, pillows and comforters in microfine cotton or synthetic fabric encasings with a pore size of approximately 6 microns.
   
   
2. Wash bedding (blankets, sheets, and comforters) and soft toys once a week using hot water (130°F).
   
   
3. Remove soft toys from the bedroom.
   
   
4. Remove wall to wall carpets (use small rugs, if necessary). Remove curtains and heavy drapes and use blinds for windows.

In other parts of the home:

1. Remove carpets or treat wall to wall carpets with an acaricide containing 3-5% benzyl benzoate: or "dry" steam-clean the carpets.
   
   
2. Use vinyl, leather, wooden or plastic furniture, where possible and keep soft furnishing to a minimum.
   
   
3. Use a vacuum cleaner with 2 layer microfiltration bags, and wear a mask while vacuum cleaning.
   
   

Not recommended: Room air cleaners, air ionizers or electrostatic devices; air duct cleaning.

Checklist #2

Controlling cat and dog allergens

Option 1 - get rid of the pet

1. Vacuum clean regularly to reduce allergen levels.
   
   
2. Wash all bedding, mattress covers and carpets.
   
   
3. Wash walls, floors, carpets and other hard surfaces to remove allergen.
   
   
4. Use a HEPA filter room air cleaner.
   
   
5. Consider getting an alternative "non-allergenic" pet or finding new interests, hobbies or activities.

- It may take 1-2 months to completely eradicate the allergen after getting rid of the pet -

Option 2 - if keeping the pet

1. Remove carpets.
   
   
2. Try to keep the animal outside the house.
   
   
3. Use HEPA filter room air cleaners.
   
   
4. Wash the cat/dog at least twice a week.
   
   
5. Wash bedding once a week.
   

Not recommended: air ionizers, electrostatic devices, air duct cleaning, special shampoos, diets.

Physical

1. Improve ventilation.
   
   
2. Clean up food scraps and waste.
   
   
3. Repair leaking faucets, sinks, tubs and reduce cockroach access to water sources.
   
   
4. Caulk and seal cracks and crevices.

Chemical

1. Use baits, traps or gels containing hydramethylnon fipronil or abamectin.
   
   
2. Blow boric acid powder into inaccessible areas. Do not use this if there are children at home.
   
   
3. Consult your local pest control company or cooperative extension service for further help and advice.