What makes my eyes red and crusted shut in the morning?

Blepharitis, allergy: Most commonly, this would be blepharitis (chronic inflammation of the eyelids). The mainstays of treatment are daily hot compresses to the eyelids coupled with careful, gentle eyelid/eyelash washing with dilute baby shampoo or a commercial wipe like ocusoft. If your vision is affected, symptoms are worsening or don't respond to the above, see your eye doctor.