Allergen-Free Bedding Products

You can ease dust mite allergies by using allergen-free bedding products.

Allergen-free bedding products are used to reduce symptoms of dust mite allergies. Dust mite allergies can cause typical allergic reactions like sneezing and congestion, or they can contribute to more serious problems like asthma. You can address these problems by using allergen-blocking covers on beds and pillows.

Dust Mites

Dust mites are microscopic animals related to other mites and ticks. They are in the class Arachnida, which also includes spiders and scorpions. However, dust mites are so small (1/100 inch) that they are invisible to the human eye. Their small size does not make them a small problem, though. Up to 10 million mites can live in one mattress. The mites like warmth and humidity and their food supply is dead skin cells, so beds and pillows are a preferred habitat for them. Although they also live in carpets, stuffed animals and even pet beds.

Dust Mite Allergies

Dust mite fecal pellets and decaying bodies (commonly found in house dust) have proteins that act as allergens in people who are sensitive to them. When inhaled, they cause an immune system reaction leading to inflammation of nasal passages. A doctor can diagnose a dust mite allergy based on symptoms, an allergy skin test or a blood test.

Bedding Covers

Because the number of dust mites in bedding can be large and a person spends a lot of time sleeping, dust mite allergies can be aggravated by mites in bedding. Allergen-free bedding covers are made of materials that block dust mite allergens. Some covers have synthetic membranes and others are made of fabric with very small pores that allergens cannot pass through.

Tips

You can use zippered covers to ease dust mite allergy symptoms.

To provide protection against dust mite allergies, use zippered covers that completely encase the mattress and box spring. Also, use zippered covers for pillows and comforters. If you use a cover made of non-membrane fabric, ensure the pore size is less than 6 microns. Keep comfort in mind when buying allergen-free covers, but remember that you will have sheets and pillowcases over them.

References

• Dust mites: Dust Mite Basics
• Allergy Guard Direct: Allergy Bedding Buyers Guide
• Mayo Clinic: Dust Mite Allergy