CONTACT: Brian Sansoni, SDA, 202-662-2517 or 202-347-2900 bsansoni@cleaning101.com

Soap and Detergent Association Provides Free Info on Cleaning to Control Asthma, Allergy Attacks

WASHINGTON, DC, July 10, 2002 -- Newly published research confirms that regular use of laundry detergent and bleach is effective in eliminating dust mites, which The Soap and Detergent Association (SDA) notes is a leading trigger of asthma and allergy attacks.

Researchers at Wright State University (Dayton, OH) published a study in the June issue of the journal Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, evaluating the effectiveness of laundering techniques in removing dust mites from bed linens. Dust mites are microscopic creatures that feed on human skin flakes that are shed every day, particularly in bedrooms, bedding and bathrooms.

The study's authors reported that "the cumulative effect of weekly washing in warm water with most brands (of laundry detergent) should significantly reduce dust mite levels in bed linens over time, particularly if the mattress and pillows are encased to prevent re-infestation."

The authors recommend pre-soaking bed linens with laundry detergent and bleach weekly for four hours in warm water (at least 95 degrees Fahrenheit), following by regular washing in warm water.

"Previous research has shown that 80 percent of asthmatic children are severely allergic to dust mites," said Ernie Rosenberg, SDA President, who suffered from asthma during childhood. "This new study provides fresh evidence that cleaning in the home is an inexpensive yet effective way to help eliminate the triggers that lead to asthma flare-ups."

SDA, which represents cleaning product manufacturers and their ingredient suppliers, publishes free information for educators and families so they can be better equipped at managing and reducing asthma and allergy suffering in the home.

SDA's free asthma education materials are available online in English and Spanish, at www.cleaning101.com/health/allergies/. Additional materials, including educator kits, can be ordered online as well at order@cleaning101.com.

The Soap and Detergent Association (www.cleaning101.com) is the non-profit trade association representing over 100 manufacturers of household, industrial and institutional cleaning products; their ingredients; and finished packaging. SDA members produce more than 90% of the cleaning products marketed in the U.S. SDA is located at 1500 K Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20005.

Related links:

SDA Asthma Education Page:
www.cleaning101.com/health/allergies/

SDA Asthma Fact Sheet:
www.cleaning101.com/health/allergies/asthma/index.html

SDA Member Companies:
www.cleaning101.com/about/members.html