It’s hard enough trying to shut your mind down and drift off to sleep at a reasonable hour. So when congestion, sneezing, and itching rudely rips you out of dreamland, you have every reason to be annoyed. Allergies, am I right?
You might try to avoid the outdoors or clean up pet hair more often to cure the problem, but did you know that your bedding might actually be the culprit for your nighttime allergy troubles?
How Can Your Bedding Cause Allergies?
Yep, you read that right. Many popular pillows and comforters are made from fabrics that attract dust mites, mold, and bacteria. They can send your allergies into a frenzy, no matter the time of year.
If you keep your room dark and run a humidifier at night, the problem can be even worse, since mold grows more quickly in a dim, damp atmosphere. Is there anything you can do? Yes, hypoallergenic bedding can eliminate your allergy woes.
What is Hypoallergenic Bedding?
Hypoallergenic bedding is specifically designed to keep bacteria, dust mites, and mold at bay so you can sleep more comfortably. It comes in all shapes and sizes, from dust mite mattress covers to mattress pads and memory foam pillows. So how do you find the right hypoallergenic bedding for your needs?
Top Hypoallergenic Bedding
Hypoallergenic bedding is made from a variety of natural and man-made materials. Learning the types of hypoallergenic bedding available will help you narrow down your options. Here are some of the most popular styles of bedding that are proven to minimize allergens and bacterial growth.
1. Eucalyptus
Do you often find yourself waking up in the night in a hot sweat? It’s time to keep it cool, baby. A eucalyptus comforter will do wonders for your sleep routine, offering natural temperature regulation and anti-microbial properties all in one splendid blanket. Another bonus? Eucalyptus trees require less water than cotton to grow, making them a sustainable option.
2. Bamboo
Like eucalyptus, bamboo is an all-natural fiber that’s hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. It’s ultra-soft, cool to the touch, lightweight, and breathable—meaning you’ll spend less time sneezing and more time snoozing. It’s also more sustainable than cotton. So let the air flow and sleep on.
3. Cotton
Cotton is one of the world’s most popular fabrics for good reason. This fiber is naturally hypoallergenic, breathable, and soft. It’s easy to clean and dry, too, which is a crucial part of keeping dust mites from collecting on your bedding. If you have particularly sensitive skin, choose chemical-free organic cotton bedding.
How to Find the Right Hypoallergenic Bedding
With all the great options for hypoallergenic bedding, which one should you choose? Here are a few questions to ask yourself while you’re shopping around for the perfect option.
1. What Is the Climate Like in Your Area?
Do you live in a place that’s warm most of the year? Or do you have long, cold winters? Opt for a blanket that suits the climate in your area, and you’re sure to sleep happier.
2. Are You a Hot Sleeper?
Even if you live in a place where it’s cold much of the year, you might be one of those insufferably hot sleepers. In that case, go for the bedding that’s going to keep you cool all year long.
3. Do You Have Other Sleep Troubles?
If you suffer from anxiety, insomnia, or any other sleep-related troubles, you may want hypoallergenic bedding that can double up as a cure for multiple issues. For example, weighted blankets are a great option for minimizing restlessness and promoting a greater sense of calm as you doze off.