If you suffer from allergies, finding a comfortable and hypoallergenic mattress can be a game-changer. Not only can allergens in your bedding exacerbate symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and watery eyes, but sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress can also make it difficult to get the restful sleep you need to feel your best. Fortunately, there are many hypoallergenic mattresses available that can help allergy sufferers get a good night’s sleep while minimizing exposure to common allergens like dust mites and mold.
What is a hypoallergenic mattress?
A hypoallergenic mattress is designed to minimize or eliminate common allergens that may cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing or itching. This type of mattress is made from materials that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
There isn’t a single “hypoallergenic” material that works for everyone since people have different sensitivities and preferences when it comes to mattresses. Generally speaking, though, hypoallergenic mattresses tend to avoid using certain materials which are more prone to triggering allergies.
Materials commonly used in Hypoallergenic Mattresses
- Latex foam: Latex foam is naturally resistant against moisture buildup due its open cell structure compared with traditional polyurethane foams.
- Memory Foam: High-density memory foam has been shown helpful at reducing allergen buildup inside of bed structures.
- Coils & Springs: Due their construction by tightly woven metals coils/springs allow better airflow than closed contact pressure points found with some all-foam beds
- Organic Cotton & Wool Ticking/Outer Coverings – The cotton has natural wicking properties which keep moisture at bay thus preventing mildew/mold growth
Please note synthetic latex is used in place of natural latex by some manufacturers when advertising “latex” within their comfort layers instead of petroleum-based products because they’re easier to produce and provide similar characteristics; however, they do not have the same cooling or environmental properties as latex derived from rubber trees.
Allergens commonly found in mattresses
Before we dive deeper into hypoallergenic mattresses, it’s important to understand what allergens are most commonly found in traditional mattresses. These include:
- Dust mites: tiny creatures that feed on dead skin cells and live in bedding, pillows, carpets and other fabrics.
- Mold: a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments such as bathrooms and basements.
- Pet dander: tiny flakes of skin shed by pets like cats and dogs.
- Pollen: small particles released by plants during their reproductive cycle which can become trapped inside homes.
These allergens can exacerbate symptoms for people with allergies or asthma. Fortunately, there are ways to minimize exposure to them.
Considerations when choosing a Hypoallergenic Mattress
When shopping for a hypoallergenic mattress, there are some key considerations you’ll want to keep in mind based on your preferences:
1. Firmness Level
The ideal firmness level of your new mattress will depend on your sleeping position and personal preference. For example, side sleepers typically prefer softer mattresses that conform closely to the body’s curves whereas stomach sleepers generally prefer firmer beds that prevent excessive sinking around the hips thus putting stress on back muscles.
2. Materials Used
As mentioned earlier, materials used within the construction of hypoallergenic mattresses is crucial since certain materials make it easier for allergens such as dust mites & pet dander accumulate inside bed layers or promote breeding ground such as closed cell memory foam products where moisture is more likely retained without proper airflow. Additionally if organic/natural components play an important role in minimizing overall exposure these should be safeguarded when considering ‘hypo-allergy’ related claims including GOTS/Organic certifications.
3. Price
Hypoallergenic mattresses vary in price based on the materials used, size and added features such as cooling layers or extra support structures designed for larger individuals providing additional structural support. However, consider purchasing a high-quality hypoallergenic mattress to invest in your health and well-being may be worth it in the long term since you’ll likely sleep better with less allergy symptoms.
Top Hypoallergenic Mattresses
- Avocado Green Mattress – Made from organic cotton and natural latex, this highly rated hybrid mattress is perfect for those who are looking for an eco-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort or quality.
- PlushBeds Botanical Bliss – Another great choice for environmentally conscious consumers, the Botanical Bliss is made from all-natural materials like organic wool and cotton certified by GOTS standards which helps reduce moisture buildup compared traditional synthetic fibers seen within covers.
- Amerisleep AS4 – This memory foam mattress has a medium firmness level which provides excellent pressure relief without sacrificing support.
- Saatva Classic – A luxury coil mattress featuring multiple layers of supportive memory foam and sustainably sourced coils designed to prevent motion transfer while reducing allergen buildup due breathability provided via open air flow design.
Other Tips to Reduce Allergy Symptoms
While choosing a hypoallergenic mattress can go a long way towards reducing allergy symptoms during sleep hours at home, there are other steps you can take to further minimize exposure:
- Use allergen-proof bedding: Pillows & Encasements specifically designed with micro-pore membrane technology allow airflow yet block out tiny dust mites/pet dander particles where they do not get trapped inside moister ridden foam/padding below.
- Wash sheets regularly: Washing bed linens once per week (in hot water) will help get rid of lingering allergens like pollen & skin cells thereby minimizing the amount resettling in other areas of home.
- Use a HEPA air filter: A properly maintained HEPA air filter will trap most airborne allergens before they have the chance to settle inside your mattress/bedding.
Conclusion
If you’re an allergy sufferer, investing in a hypoallergenic mattress can make a huge difference in your quality of life. By choosing the right materials and construction methods, you can minimize exposure to common allergens like dust mites and mold while getting the comfortable and restful sleep you deserve. When shopping for a new mattress, consider factors such as firmness level, material choices & price point that meet your sensitivities/specific needs as well as supporting healthy sleep habits within overall household routine including recommended cleaning/washing tips for maximum results .
FAQs
Can hypoallergenic mattresses completely eliminate allergies?
While hypoallergenic mattresses can help reduce the risk of allergens and irritants in your bed, they cannot completely eliminate allergies. However, by using a mattress that is designed to minimize exposure to common allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold, you can significantly reduce allergy symptoms.
What materials are typically used in hypoallergenic mattresses?
Hypoallergenic mattresses are made from materials that are resistant to common allergens such as dust mites and mold. These materials may include natural latex foam, organic cotton or wool fibers, bamboo fabric or synthetic foams treated with antimicrobial agents.
How often should I replace my hypoallergenic mattress?
Like all types of mattresses, hypoallergenic models will eventually wear out over time. While the lifespan of a mattress depends on several factors – including how often it’s used and cared for – most experts recommend replacing your mattress every seven to ten years. This will ensure that it continues to provide adequate support while preventing excess buildup of dust mites and other allergens over time.
