Allergy sleep solutions
Approximately 1 in 3 people in the UK are affected with allergies at some point in their lives and this number is on the increase, especially in children. One of the most common causes of allergy is dust mites which love bedrooms, and as we spend a third of our lifetime in the bedroom it's important that we know how to prevent or at least control allergies. Dust mites are known to thrive in bedding and it's estimated that the average bed has over 10,000 dust mites living inside. However the real issue is not with the dust mites themselves but with their droppings which cause allergic reactions when inhaled. Therefore, if you suffer from allergic reactions to dust mites, anti-allergy bedding is key to a good night's sleep.
An anti-allergy duvet is a good start to protect you and your family from dust mite allergies. The John Lewis Microfibre Anti-Allergy Duvet has fine microfibres which mimic down clusters to trap air for great softness, warmth and comfort while Amicor fibres create a barrier against dust mites, significantly helping to relieve allergies.
New to John Lewis this year is the Sleep Angel pillow which is the first and only pillow to be impermeable to viruses, bacteria, common flu bug, water droplets, bed bugs and dust mites. Only air can enter and leave this pillow so it is super hygienic yet still comfortable to sleep on. The pillow has 2 built in breathable filters, one on each side, which allows only air particles to enter the pillow core. This technology shields against the spread of household colds and flu bugs and reduces the air borne irritants that can cause asthma or respiratory attacks. The case is wipe clean and has been welded together so that nothing can enter the pillow during its lifetime.
The Sleep Angel pillow was designed and manufactured by Gabriel Scientific who won the Irish Innovation Award 2012 for their invention. It was originally designed for hospital patients to reduce the risk of patients contracting hospital acquired infections but was seen to have many benefits for the household as well.
Other tips to keep dust mites out of your bedroom include regularly washing your clothes and linens at 60 degrees to eliminate the number of dust mites living within. Additionally wash any other fabrics when you can such as curtains, toys, cushion covers and rugs etc. Leave your bed unmade as this allows moisture to be released from the mattress, preventing further dust mite growth. And finally keep your room tidy! Avoid leaving clothing on the floor as this attracts dust mites and store unnecessary items away in cupboards and wardrobes.
