High-efficiency particulate arrest–filter vacuum cleaners increase personal cat allergen exposure in homes with cats

Experimental chamber testing of vacuum cleaners. Paired observations (baseline and switched on) are shown for each vacuum cleaner, connected by a line . There are 2 pairs of readings (1 from each observer) for each vacuum cleaner tested. The units are inspired Fel d 1–bearing particle counts (halo units).

Field testing of vacuum cleaners. Paired observations (baseline and switched on) are shown for each test, connected by a line . There are 10 paired observations (2 observers × 5 homes) for each group of vacuum cleaners tested (old and new). The number of observations (n = 10) is shown for each group. Two paired observations in Fig 2, B were below the limits of detection both before and during vacuuming. (A) Inspired Fel d 1–bearing particle counts before and during vacuum cleaning. (B) Inspired Fel d 1 load (ng/mL) before and during vacuum cleaning.