Beat Spring Allergies - In Your Sleep!

Spring is well underway, and it’s not just warmer weather and freshly blooming flowers that we’re welcoming in - it’s also allergens’ time to shine. Though it may seem like there’s no escape, there are many ways you can help keep these itchy invaders out of your home. Read on to learn more! 

What Allergies Are Keeping You Up At Night?

1. Dust Mite Allergies

Dust mites are tiny bugs that live in every household, and thrive in warm, humid environments like bedding. Dust mite allergies are quite common, and hypoallergenic bedding can go a long way to reduce any dust-related sniffles.

Dust Mite Allergy Tips:

• Wash bedding frequently to reduce the build up of dust, once a week at a minimum. Choose bedding that’s easy to wash - we recommend using duvets with a duvet cover, which are much easier to wash than bulky comforters.
• If you don’t own hypoallergenic bedding, then a hot water cycle will help to eliminate dust mites. But before you launder your bedding, be sure to check the care label for the recommended washing temperature.
• Remove dust and vacuum regularly. Use a damp rag or mop to clean it, as traditional dusters produce airborne dust. 
• Consider removing dust magnets such as household clutter, non washable curtains, blinds, and even carpeting if possible.

Allergy-Reducing Bedding:

Silk Filled Protectors

Mattress and pillow protectors are a must-have item for protecting your sleep sanctuary from allergens. Our Silk Filled Mattress Protector and Silk Filled Pillow Protector are filled with 100% pure Mulberry Silk floss, and are naturally resistant to dust mites, mildew, mold and other bedtime baddies. Wash them frequently to get rid of allergens and protect your bed.

2. Down Bedding

A common misconception is that down fill or feathers cause bedding-related allergies, while dust (and dust mites) are actually the ones to blame. Some people do indeed have a feather or down allergy though, and fortunately we have some great hypoallergenic alternatives!

Down Allergy Tips:

• Consider natural down alternatives such as silk, wool, and kapok.
• If you suspect you have a feather allergy, seek medical advice to determine the root cause of your symptoms.

Allergy-Reducing Bedding:

Pearl Mulberry Silk Duvet

Silk is naturally hypoallergenic and highly resistant to dust mites and bacteria. Our Pearl Mulberry Silk Duvet is the perfect allergy-friendly choice, and a great top layer for the warmer months when allergies can spike!

Kapok Bedding Basics

Put allergies to rest with our Kapok Komfort Duvet and Kamboo Kapok Filled Adjustable Pillow. A natural filling made from sustainable rainforest crops and free from chemicals and pesticides, Kapok is hypoallergenic, water-resistant, and mold-resistant for refreshing organic comfort. 

3. Skin Sensitivities

Along with hay fever-like symptoms, allergies can also cause skin inflammation. This can lead to a condition called allergic dermatitis, as well as rashes, hives, scaly patches and eczema.

The best way to eliminate skin-related allergic reactions is to limit exposure to the allergens in question. 

Skin Sensitivity Tips:

• Opt for skin-friendly fabrics made from breathable, natural fibres with antibacterial, antifungal and deodorizing properties.
• Avoid fragrances and harmful chemicals in bedding and laundry cleaning products.
• Pay attention to fabric weave! A sateen weave is silky soft to touch, and much gentler on the skin.

Allergy-Reducing Products:

Bamboo Cotton Linens With Activated Charcoal

Antibacterial, antifungal and temperature regulating, sound too good to be true? Thanks to its negative ionic charge and porous structure, our Bamboo Cotton Linens with Activated Charcoal are the perfect solution for allergy sufferers, those with sensitive skin, or anyone wanting a healthier sleep.

TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet Covers and Sheeting

Crafted from natural woods and blended with cotton, our TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet Covers and sheets are naturally moisture-wicking and allergy-friendly for luxuriously fresh sleep. Buttery soft and soothing on the skin, TENCEL™ Lyocell can provide heavenly relief for those suffering from skin sensitivities.

4. Pollen Allergies

Pollen itself isn’t harmful, but exposure to pollen can trigger an allergic reaction. Common signs are a runny nose and other hay fever-like symptoms.

Pollen Allergy Tips:

• Choose bedding that’s easy to wash - we recommend using duvets with a duvet cover, as the removable covers are much easier to wash than bulky comforters.
• Change from outdoor clothes to indoor clothes to avoid contaminating your home.
• Avoid hanging laundry outside to dry - this will help to reduce exposure to wind borne pollen.
• Have a shower or bath before bed, and wash your hair, to limit pollen exposure and avoid transferring it to your bedding.
• Keep your windows closed and avoid the outdoors when the pollen count in your area is high.

5. Pet Allergies

Most commonly associated with cats and dogs, pet allergies can be triggered by any animal with fur, with proteins in their skin, saliva, or urine causing symptoms similar to hay fever. For those with asthma, their symptoms may be aggravated. 

Pet Allergy Tips:

• Take steps to remove animal skin cells, saliva and fur around your home by vacuuming and laundering frequently. 
• If you have carpets, aim to steam-clean these regularly.
• Prioritize regular grooming - brushing or combing your pet (preferably outdoors!) multiple times a week will help to reduce shedding around the home.

We hope this helps you to get your home prepared in the lead up to peak allergy season! If you are interested in learning more about our allergy solutions, book a free consultation with one of our sleep stylists. You can also visit any of our 70+ store locations across Canada to get great personalized advice and recommendations. We hope to see you soon!