What Makes a Hypoallergenic Comforter Hypoallergenic?

If you have allergies or sensitive skin, you probably already know that hypoallergenic comforters are the best choice for protecting your skin and body from dust mites and other allergens. Many people suffer for years, sleeping on materials that trigger allergic reactions before they transition to hypoallergenic bedding and discover what it’s like to really having a great night of sleep. Once you know that your allergies are caused by your bedding, you can start looking for the right hypoallergenic comforter. But what makes a comforter hypoallergenic and how can you know that you are getting the right product for your needs?

Identify Your Allergies

While you don’t need to know exactly what is causing your allergies, you do need to have a general idea. Short of going to the doctor for a round of allergy testing, you can start eliminating certain materials from your bed. If you have a down comforter (a common source of allergies), switch it out for one with a cotton fill. If your allergies subside, you probably have found the source of your restless nights or waking up groggy and unclear.

 All-Natural Fibers

The best way to find a hypoallergenic comforter is to look for all-natural materials. While down is all-natural, it comes from geese, and because many people are naturally allergic to animal dander and fibers, it’s best to look for comforters that are made from and filled with plant-based materials. Cotton is a good place to start, as it has very low reactivity (meaning it is highly unlikely to trigger an allergic reaction), and it is readily available. Cotton and bamboo are the most common materials for hypoallergenic comforters.

Fight Allergens 

In addition to picking a material that does not cause an allergic reaction, there are a number of ways to prevent allergens from settling in your bedding. Over time, dust, mold spores, and animal dander will gather on your bedding. When you lift your comforter to get into bed, that motion will release these allergens into the air. Covering your comforter, pillows, and mattress with hypoallergenic covers, which can be regularly removed and washed, is the best way to fight these allergens. Also, look for a hypoallergenic comforter that has a high thread count. The higher the thread count, the less likely it is that dust and mold spores can gather and work their way into the fabric.

What to Avoid

It is best to avoid any man-made materials, as well as any materials that are taken from animals, if your allergies. If you really cannot stand not having a down comforter, you can find comforters that are made from washed down, which is less likely to trigger a reaction.