Choose the Best Pillowcases for Allergies
According to the Cleveland Clinic, using protective covers on pillow cases and mattresses helps to reduce symptoms for people who are allergic to dust mites or who suffer from asthma. The popular YouTube channel The Tools World looks at how to choose the best protective pillow cases.
Look for pillowcases made with hypoallergenic fabrics like cotton. Many people with allergies also have sensitive skin, so materials like cotton not only protect the pillow from dust mites but won’t irritate your skin.
Check the label to see how large the pore size is. The smaller the size, the less likely it is that dust mites will get through. Consumer Reports states that it’s best to have a pore size no bigger than 6 micrometers, also called microns.
You also want to look for pillow cases that have been certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). These labels may have the AAFA logo, say “Meets Certification Standards,” or “Certified Asthma and Allergy Friendly.” This means that the pillowcase blocks 99% of allergens before the first wash and about 95% through the first 18 wash cycles.
Pillowcases should be washed in hot water every week to remove allergens. They should be replaced when they either show signs of wear, or allergy or asthma symptoms start getting worse, which may be a sign that the pillow case is wearing out.
