My daughter suffers from eczema and one of the things that causes irritation to her skin is dust mites. I’ve read up on allergy friendly bedding and how to dust mite proof a bed, and we have found a system that works for us. It’s made a big difference to my daughter’s skin.
Allergy Friendly Bedding: How to Dust Mite Proof a Bed
The first thing to note is there are a lot of so-called allergy friendly products out there, but a lot of it is marketing and these products alone aren’t necessarily effective. There has to be a process, and after researching, I’ve boiled it down to a system we use to keep my daughter’s bed as dust mite-free as possible.
Products/Process
- Mattress protector that covers the entire mattress (not only the top).
- Cover mattress with a dust mite-proof fitted sheet.
- Cover with a regular sheet (or allergy-friendly sheet). For my daughter, I use a silky feeling sheet with antibacterial properties.
- Quilts: Feathers are not ideal; Microfiber (e.g. Polyester, Tencel) quilts are better for allergy suffers and they are affordable. However, it’s best for the quilt to be covered with a dust mite-proof protector, even if quilts are labelled ‘allergy friendly’.
- Cover quilt in a quilt protector (for dust mite protection).
- Place quilt cover over the top.
- Place pillow inside a pillow dust mite-proof protector.
- Cover with pillowcase.
I purchased sheets (that are smooth so they don’t irritate my daughter’s skin) and dust mite-proof protectors from Aussie company Allergend.com.au.
Cleaning System
Wash all items in hot water.
Weekly
- Pillow cases
- Regular sheets
8-12 Weeks
- Pillow Protector
- Quilt Protector
- Dust Mite Fitted Sheet
- Quilt Cover
- Quilt (or at least air the quilt)
Yearly
- Mattress cover
- Quilt
This system is both doable and effective.
You can see the massive improvement in my daughter’s skin.
7 Comments
Andra
June 18, 2015 at 10:42 pmNorwex Mattress Cleaner Is a MUST for dealing with dust mites. It’s enzyme based and breaks down organic matter (dust mite food) in bedding, pillows etc. No food, less dust mites. It’s made a huge difference for many people. A few sprays as often as needed. I do every six months, those with allergies, eczema etc may need to use more often. More info here http://www.andrahowman.norwexbiz.com.au and here https://www.facebook.com/andrahowmangems/posts/399996843518008. (Hope it’s ok to post the links. I know how much it’s helped people and hopefully it can help many others.)
Rach
June 19, 2015 at 12:13 pmmy doctor also mentioned a HEPA air filter – have you tried it? I am loath to buy more appliances but want to do the right thing.
Rach
June 19, 2015 at 12:14 pmFantastic article by the way – I have just found out we all have allergies to dust mites and was overwhelmed with how to start.
Kelly - Be A Fun Mum
June 19, 2015 at 2:37 pmThanks for sharing. I’ll look into that!
sangeetha menon
June 22, 2015 at 6:54 amGreat post.Here also I wash pillow covers, sheets and quilts regularly and all pillows too.
Tom Samual
December 20, 2016 at 4:49 amThanks for the info here! A lot of people don’t even know that they might be allergic to dust mites and info like this certainly helps them out. You’ll never get rid of the little critters 100% but doing the best you can to reduce the number does help.
Briony Kieseker
September 19, 2017 at 11:07 pmHi, I know that this article is really old so hoping you’re still receiving comments. my son is highly allergic to dust mites and your system is pretty much the same as what I’ve come up with although I am trying to do away with the top sheet and just have a doona, so I want to wash the donna cover every week with hot water. There is one problem I can’t solve and would love your thoughts/advice….have you found a super-soft doona cover that can handle the hot washing? Do you have shrinkage/fading problems. I have searched high and low for good quality quilt cover that is suitable to be hot washed to no avail.
Also – are you happy with the Dermasheets from allergend? I am considering the investment but have been uncertain about using synthetic fabric instead of cotton.
In return for your help, here is a tip for you – Dermasilk pyjamas have been Amazeballs! Since using for 5 months, virtually no eczema at all on a kid who previously would wake up several times during the night scractching and itching. They come with a hefty price tag though, and handwashing only can be tedious.