Your bedroom, and bedding should be a sanctuary you can’t wait to get back to at the end of a long day. Unfortunately, for anyone with allergies, bedtime can mean the start of a stuffy and sniffly night — one that certainly doesn’t lead to refreshing sleep. Choosing the right bedding is one step you can take to help manage your allergies, but you need to know which fabrics are genuinely hypoallergenic. Let’s take a look.
What Causes Allergies in the Bedroom?
Many people might not realise that it’s rarely the bedding itself causing an allergic reaction. Factors that can cause allergies include:
- An open window blowing pollen or other allergens in.
- An old mattress hanging onto allergens or encouraging dust mites.
- Thick carpets that may also encourage dust mites.
- Pets that climb on the bed or sleep in your room.
- Hidden allergens like mould.
This last point is tricky to deal with unless you get expert help. Mould that’s under your wallpaper or paint might be virtually invisible. However, because you spend around eight hours in your bedroom, even a small patch of mould could cause allergies or irritation.
Hypoallergenic Bedding Options
Of course, you can reduce the impact of allergies by investing in hypoallergenic bed sheets, duvets, and coverlets. Here are just a few materials proven to help with allergies.
Cotton Bedding
Cotton is naturally hypoallergenic as well as comfortable, breathable, and durable. As well as fighting allergens, it can help with symptoms like stuffiness and swollen sinuses by helping regulate your temperature.
Look out for cotton sheets that are sustainably sourced for a minimal impact on the environment. Sheets labelled “sateen” are also made of cotton. Sateen simply refers to the weave and means the sheets have a buttery, soft feeling that can help you have a good night’s sleep.
Bamboo Sheets
Bamboo is another material that’s hypoallergenic but also antimicrobial. It resists mould and other microorganisms, making it ideal for those allergy sufferers who might not know exactly what it is they’re allergic to.
You can find 100% bamboo sheets as well as blends with other fibres such as rayon. Bamboo is soft and comfortable, and some people note that bamboo sheets become softer with regular washing.
Down/Feather Filling Alternatives
Down is a natural material that has a beautifully soft, cloud-like feel — much sought after by those who love a cosy bedroom. However, down bedding — made from duck or goose feathers — can be problematic for allergy sufferers. It can trap dust and the allergens contained in that dust. It’s also potentially prone to microbes as it can hang onto moisture if not properly maintained.
Down alternatives, such as polyester-based microfibres, have a very similar feeling but offer a hypoallergenic alternative.
Five Tips for Allergy Sufferers
Here are just a few tips for reducing the impact of allergies after bedtime:
1. Keep Windows Closed at Night
Summer air carries allergens like pollen, dust, and animal dander — all of which can make your allergies worse. Invest in a fan or small cooling unit instead.
2. Keep Pets Off the Bed
Try and create a cosy space for them elsewhere. Buy a pet bed or put a blanket in a cardboard box.
3. Change Your Sheets Every Few Days
This is even more important when the weather is warm. Try changing them at least one day earlier than you do right now.
4. Avoid Strong Scents in the Bedroom
Candles and incense are nice, but they can make allergies worse. Try and keep your bedroom un-fragranced.
5. Shake Your Pillows
Pillows will eventually collect dust. Give them a quick shake outside to refresh them.
Did you know that a quarter of people in the UK suffer from allergies at some point in their lives? Getting a sniffly nose or feeling stuffy on a night is more normal than you might realise — however, high-quality bedding from a trusted retailer can help. You should also consider speaking to your family doctor or even a pharmacist about what treatments are available. Getting on top of allergies quickly can help you get a good night’s sleep so don’t leave it and hope it will get better.