Bamboo bedding and allergies and what can be done

Short answer: With a dust mite allergy, washing temperature and frequency matter most, not the material. Mites die at around 60 degrees, and a steady routine of hot washing and good airing does more than any particular fabric can.

Temperature over material

Mites live in all textiles, whether the bed linen is cotton, linen or bamboo viscose. What reduces them is hot washing, not the fibre. Check the care label before you buy so you know whether the bed linen can handle the temperature you need. Read more about temperatures under washing and care.

Frequency matters

With allergies, washing every week rather than every other week is often recommended. The more often the bed linen goes in the machine, the fewer mites and residues build up in the fabric. It is a routine, not a purchase. Talk to your doctor about what suits your situation.

Moisture in the bedroom

Mites thrive in moisture and warmth. Air the room every day, ideally with a cross draught for five to ten minutes, so the moisture from the night can escape. Leave the bed open for an hour in the morning instead of making it straight away, so the mattress and duvet dry out.

What the material can add

A fabric that moves moisture away from the skin helps the bed dry faster during the day. It does not remove mites, but it makes conditions a little less favourable for them. Bamboo viscose absorbs moisture well, and that property can help a little. See bamboo bed linen.

Wash the duvet and pillow too

Bed linen is only the outer layer. The duvet and pillow also collect dust and moisture and are washed less often. Check whether they can be washed at a high temperature, and make sure they dry all the way through afterwards. A duvet put away slightly damp is a good place for mites.

Dry the bed linen fully

After washing, bed linen should be completely dry before it goes on the bed or into the cupboard. Moisture in the fabric causes odour and gives mites better conditions. Hang it loosely, or use a tumble dryer on low heat if the care label allows it. Seams and corners dry slowest.

Keep several sets in rotation

If you wash every week, it helps to own at least two or three sets of bed linen. That way you can change the bed on washing day and do not have to wait for a set to dry. More sets also mean each one is washed less often and lasts longer.

Keep the room simple

Heavy curtains, piles of cushions and rugs on the floor collect dust. The fewer textiles lying around the bedroom, the less there is to keep clean. The room does not have to be bare, but it helps to choose things that can be washed. See home and homewear in bamboo for textiles for the home.

Treatment belongs with a doctor

Allergies are diagnosed and treated by your doctor. This article only covers what bed linen and daily routines can contribute, and it cannot replace an examination or treatment. If you have symptoms that do not go away or get worse at night, talk to your doctor about what is right for you.