Air Purifiers for AllergiesHay Fever, Pets, Dust Mites
Over 13 million people in the UK suffer from allergies. Learn how MERV and HEPA air purifiers remove 85-99% of allergens for effective symptom relief.
UK Allergy Statistics
Allergen Particle Sizes
Understanding particle sizes helps you choose the right filter. All common allergens are captured by MERV 13+:
| Allergen | Size (microns) | MERV 13 | MERV 16/HEPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pollen (grass, tree) | 10-100 μm | 85-90% | 99%+ |
| Dust mites | 10-40 μm | 85-90% | 99%+ |
| Pet dander | 2-10 μm | 80-85% | 95%+ |
| Mould spores | 3-30 μm | 85-90% | 99%+ |
| Cat allergen (Fel d 1) | 1-10 μm | 75-85% | 95%+ |
UK Pollen Calendar 2026
🌳 Tree Pollen
March - May
Birch (April peak), Oak, Ash, Plane trees. Affects 25% of hay fever sufferers.
🌾 Grass Pollen
May - July (peak)
Affects 95% of hay fever sufferers. Late May to early July is worst. Run purifiers 24/7.
🌿 Weed Pollen
June - September
Nettle, Dock, Mugwort. Overlaps with grass season. Extended relief needed.
Daily Pollen Tips
- • Pollen highest: 6-9am and 5-7pm
- • Keep windows closed during peak hours
- • Run air purifier continuously during season
- • Shower and change clothes after outdoor exposure
- • Check Met Office pollen forecast daily
Pet Allergy Solutions
🐱 Cat Allergies
Cat allergen (Fel d 1) is particularly sticky and can remain airborne for hours. It's found on skin, saliva, and urine - not just fur.
- ✓ Use MERV 16 or HEPA for severe allergies
- ✓ Place purifier in bedroom (pet-free zone)
- ✓ Run 24/7 for cumulative benefit
- ✓ HEPA vacuum weekly
🐕 Dog Allergies
Dog allergens (Can f 1) are similar to cats but slightly larger particles. Regular grooming helps reduce airborne levels.
- ✓ MERV 13 usually sufficient
- ✓ Groom dog outdoors weekly
- ✓ Wash dog bedding frequently
- ✓ Keep dog out of bedroom
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best air purifier for allergies?
MERV 13-16 or HEPA H13 filters are best for allergies. They capture 85-99.97% of allergens including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mould spores. For hay fever specifically, MERV 13 is sufficient as pollen particles are 10-100 microns.
Do air purifiers help with hay fever?
Yes, significantly. MERV 13 filters capture 85-90% of pollen particles (10-100 microns). Running a purifier with windows closed during high pollen days (typically 6am-9am and 5pm-7pm) can reduce symptoms dramatically.
Can air purifiers remove pet allergens?
Yes. Pet dander particles are 2-10 microns and are efficiently captured by MERV 13+ filters. For severe pet allergies, MERV 16 or HEPA provides 95%+ capture. Keep purifier in bedroom where pets sleep.
How long does it take for an air purifier to help allergies?
With proper sizing (5-6 ACH), you should notice improvement within 30-60 minutes of running. For best results, run continuously and you'll see cumulative benefits over days as settled allergens are removed.
When is UK pollen season?
Tree pollen: March-May. Grass pollen (affects 95% of hay fever sufferers): May-July. Weed pollen: June-September. Peak grass pollen is typically late May to early July.
Best for Allergies
MERV 13 Luggable
Perfect for hay fever, quiet bedroom use
From £149
MERV 16 for Pets
Higher capture for cat/dog allergens
From £169