Do you think that you’re allergic to your pillows? If you wake up with watery eyes and a runny nose, you may be allergic to them.
In this article, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about hypoallergenic pillows. We’ll talk about what causes pillow allergies, provide you with product recommendations and answer some frequently asked questions.
Read on to find out more!
Can you be allergic to your pillow?
Yes, you can. There are multiple reasons why you could be allergic to your pillow.
If you’ve had your pillow for a while you could be allergic to the bacteria, viruses or mold that have begun to grow in the pillows. In any of these situations, allergies such as eczema, asthma or contact dermatitis may be triggered.
These microbes can also reside in the fibers of your pillow and mix into the air. When inhaled, it can cause additional breathing allergies. To minimise such allergies, you should replace your pillows at least once a year – especially if they aren’t washable.
Some pillows may also use harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, perfumes or deodorizers that can cause allergies. Other materials that can cause pillow allergies may be in the filler material, such as feathers in down pillows.
What are the symptoms of a pillow allergy?
If you’re allergic to your pillows, you may develop the following symptoms:
- Red and watery eyes
- An itchy or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
What is the best material for pillows?
Whilst there isn’t a single best material per se, there are some materials that may be better than others when it comes to selecting a pillow.
Organic wool pillows are great as they’re similar to cotton pillows and can be found with various filling weights. Other materials that are great include kapok, buckwheat hulls, millet and organic cotton. Natural latex may be another option if you’re not prone to latex allergies.
Should I buy hypoallergenic pillows?
If you’ve got asthma, eczema, seasonal allergies or year-round allergies, hypoallergenic pillows are a great purchase. Make sure that the pillow you’re purchasing is actually labelled hypoallergenic. Also dig a little deeper and examine the materials used to help guarantee your protection.
Best Hypoallergenic Pillows On The Market
If you’re allergic to the pillows that you currently have, consider purchasing any of these hypoallergenic pillows listed below.
WonderSleep
This WonderSleep pillow is made of 60% polyester and 40% bamboo. The memory foam filling helps to provide therapeutic relief while the premium fabric ensures that your pillow stays cool and comfortable throughout the night. It’s also made with a breathable cover, and you can choose to decrease or add firmness to your pillow by removing or adding in extra foam filling.
Coop Home Goods
Another great hypoallergenic pillow is this Coop Home Goods pillow that’s made with polyester and rayon that’s derived from bamboo. You can customize this pillow to achieve the right balance between support and comfort.
There are also no toxic or harmful chemicals within this pillow and it’s completely safe for you and your loved ones. What’s interesting about this particular pillow is that the company also manufactures their own foam instead of using repurpose results so you get a comfortable pillow that’s both hypoallergenic and dust mite-resistant.
Soamay
This Soamay hypoallergenic pillow is made with a cotton cover and filled with plush poly gel fiber. It’s a high-quality pillow that’s made with breathable fabric. With its 233 thread count and super plush material, it’s a fantastic pillow that has the right amount of softness for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Sepoveda
The last great pillow on the list is this Sepoveda pillow that’s made from poly-gel filled fiber for maximum comfort in all positions. The 100% polyester fiber feels soft on your skin and it’s also breathable and perfect for all seasons.
To maintain the longevity of your pillows, you can also toss these ones in the wash and they’re both fade and stain-resistant.
FAQS – You Ask, We Answer
Below are answers to some of the commonly asked questions we’ve received.
Is polyurethane toxic in pillows?
Yes, it is. They’re common amongst foam pillows and direct exposure can affect both your liver and thyroid. It’s best to replace your foam pillows with one that’s made with either polyester fiber or features to reduce your risk of these health issues.
How do you get allergens out of pillows?
If you’re not using down pillows, you can wash your pillows and dry them properly to get the allergens out. Any moisture in your pillows can be a breeding ground for mold and bacteria so make sure you take proper care when washing your pillows.
If you are using down pillows, these can become a trap for dust mites so our recommendation is to switch to a hypoallergenic pillow instead.
How often should you change your pillows to avoid allergies?
You should be replacing your pillows every one to two years. There are certain types of pillows however that may last longer than others due to the quality and construction of their materials.
When to wash pillows?
Unless it explicitly states that your pillow can only be dry-cleaned, you should wash your pillows about twice a year as per the care label instructions. Make sure you use hypoallergenic fabric softener or hypoallergenic dryer sheets instead of chemical laden ones if you want your pillows to feel soft and to smell fresh.
Is it safe to wash pillows in the washing machine?
If it doesn’t say that your pillows can only be dry cleaned, you can put your pillows in the washing machine. When washing your pillows, try to do at least two at once so that your pillows don’t get thrown around as much.
What is the best way to wash pillows?
To wash your pillows, you’d want to remove the case, place your pillows in the washing machine and add the detergent. Thereafter you’d start the wash cycle and once it's done you’d place your pillows in the dryer and it’s all good to go!
Are feather down pillows bad for allergies?
Some individuals may be allergic to the feathers in down pillows. It isn’t just down pillows that may trigger allergies though. Studies have shown that porous materials used in certain synthetic materials can actually retain more mold and dust mites.
Are memory foam pillows good for allergies?
Memory foam pillows that don’t contain polyurethane are a good alternative for those with allergies. As a bonus, they also help with keeping you cool at night while providing adequate support for your neck.
We hope that this article gives you a comprehensive overview of hypoallergenic pillows and what causes these allergies. By switching out to a hypoallergenic pillow you should be able to alleviate any symptoms that stems from allergies and have a restful night’s sleep.
