Do HEPA Air Filters Really Work for Pet Allergies?

HEPA filters are the current gold standard for air filtration. They are pleated mechanical air filters that can remove particles as small as 0.1 microns, making them highly effective in eliminating pet allergens from the air. In fact, HEPA filters can capture up to 99.7% of contaminants that are 0.3 microns in size, including allergens, viruses, and bacteria particles. For reference, pet dander is usually between five to 10 microns on average, which is much larger than 0.3 microns.

Therefore, air purifiers equipped with a HEPA filter are great for getting rid of pet dander from the air. These purifiers are designed to remove 99.97 percent of particles that are 0.3 micrometers in size. HEPA filters can help reduce some of the larger particles, such as airborne dust, pet dander, and dust mites in your home. However, when it comes to tiny pet allergen particles that shed from larger particles of dry saliva or pet dander, a HEPA filter isn't as effective. Smaller molecules have a greater chance of passing through a HEPA filter and returning to the air, which can cause an allergic reaction if inhaled. Air pollution isn't just car smoke or factory smoke; dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and pet dander found in your home's indoor air can cause problems if your family has allergies or asthma.

Using HEPA filters can trap these contaminants and can help alleviate allergy symptoms. The best type of air purifier for reducing pet dander and reducing allergic reactions to pets is one that can destroy allergy-producing proteins carried by pet hair or contained in pet dander and saliva. Whole house air purifiers are beneficial for homeowners looking to clean the air in the whole house, in one go. When shopping for an air purifier, look for one that has a high Clean Air Supply Rate (CADR), which indicates how well the unit filters airborne contaminants and allergens. The Molekule air purifier uses technology that can destroy the smallest pet allergens and will better capture pet dander and remove all other pet-related contaminants in your home air. These tiny particles can linger in the air for long periods of time, even if your pet isn't present in the home.