Hawaii Marriott helps guests breathe easier

The top floor of the JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa at Ko Olina has been transformed to an allergy-friendly environment where guests can breathe easier.

All of the hotel's 13 guest rooms and Presidential Suite on its 17th floor have been converted to the Pure system, designed to minimize biohazards and other irritants from all room surfaces and the air.

The system, developed by Pure Solutions LLC of Buffalo, N.Y., aims to create an environment that can help ease respiratory problems, asthma and allergies that affect more than 70 million Americans.

The resort also intends to convert its indoor meeting facilities and spa by year end.

"It has always surprised me how many travelers suffer from allergies and make special requests such as having down pillows removed," said Steve Glen, general manager of JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa.

The Pure system involves installing a state-of-the-art air purification system, creating air quality that averages four times cleaner than the threshold for asthma patients.

In addition, micro-fiber hypoallergenic pillowcases and mattress covers are used in the room to eliminate the dust, dander and dust-mite related allergens usually associated with bedding.

"Bedding, carpeting, walls, furniture, air conditioning systems, and practically everything in the room is specially treated to remove contaminants and significantly hinder their return," said Glen.

Kelly Owen, a visitor from Seal Beach, Calif., was one of the first Ihilani guests to stay in an allergen-friendly room.

"I can really feel the difference, especially the smell of the room," he said.