New Certification Standard Announced for Feather and Down Filled Bedding

Millions of Consumers with Asthma and Allergies Now Have More Options for Bedding

WASHINGTON, March 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program announced today that it has  developed and adopted a certification standard and testing protocol for Feather and Down Filled Bedding. The asthma & allergy friendly® Certification Program – administered by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) in partnership with the international research organization, Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) – is an independent, non-exclusive certification program created to scientifically test and identify consumer products that are more suitable for people with asthma and allergies.

For many years, the medical community has only recommended bedding items with synthetic fill for people with asthma and allergy to prevent exposure to common allergens, including mites and proteins that may be present in traditional fill. However, technological advancements and regulations in the production process of certain modern feather and down has resulted in a more uniform and refined natural down product.

"Our testing finally provides a way to determine the level of allergenic proteins in feather and down products," according to Mike Tringale, Vice President at AAFA, "which is a major advancement for the bedding industry, and a benefit to our patients and families."

In addition to the reduced allergen fill, all certified asthma & allergy friendly® pillows are constructed with a proven allergen barrier fabric and have demonstrated the ability to withstand the recommended wash and dry frequency included with each product. The abstract of the  Feather and Down Filled Bedding Certification Standard can be downloaded at www.aafa.org/certified.

In conjunction with this announcement, Hollander Home Fashions has unveiled the first feather and down filled bedding certified asthma & allergy friendly®  as part of its new line of high-performance natural filled products at this week's Home Fashion Products Association (HFPA) Spring Market in New York City.

"Our dedicated long-time partnership with the Certification Program has enabled us to grow our business and allergen control product offerings in the basic bedding category while providing a better value added product to the consumer," said Beth Mack, Chief Merchandising Officer of Hollander Home Fashions.

In addition to the use of certified bedding products, allergen reduction tips include removing pets from the bedroom, minimizing the use of candles and wood fires, using certified HEPA air cleaners, frequent vacuuming and the regular washing of bedding at temperatures above 130°F. For more tips on allergen control in the household, download the free Guide to Reducing Allergens and Irritants in the Home at www.aafa.org/certified.

About AAFA

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is the leading national nonprofit organization fighting asthma and allergic diseases.  AAFA provides free information, conducts educational programs, fights for patients' rights, and funds research to find better treatments and cures.  www.aafa.org

About ASL

Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) is a physician led global certification company that prepares independent standards for testing a wide range of products to determine their suitability for asthma and allergy patients.  ASL's management team possesses specialist skills in a variety of medical fields including asthma and other allergic diseases.  www.allergystandards.com

SOURCE The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America