Dye and chemical-free, all-natural, organic bedding. Photo: Coyuchi
The bedroom is one of the key hideouts for dust mites, microscopic bugs that feed off of pet and human dander. The waste that dust mites create is actually what causes many allergies and asthma. Regular cleaning can keep mites at bay and make your bedroom allergy-free. Chemicals and toxins can also aggravate allergies, so opt for earth-friendly elements in the bedroom.
Here are seven things to consider in order to create an eco-friendly, allergy-free sleep space:
Bed & Mattress
Cover your mattress and box spring with a dust-proof/allergen-impermeable mattress cover. According to Health magazine, studies reveal that allergenic mattress wraps can keep dust mite waste from puffing out into your air." If you are in the market for a new mattress, The Green Guide has a comprehensive guide to finding a durable, healthy mattress.
Don't forget the bed itself: If you have a slip covered headboard or a fabric canopy, these should be laundered regularly.
In addition, a zippered pillow protector made from untreated organic cotton cane be used between the pillow and the pillow case for extra protection against dust -- this is also a good idea for those who don't want to replace their existing pillows.
Linens
Shop for bed linens made from 100% natural, organic materials like cotton, linen, hemp, wool and bamboo. For extra earth-friendly bedding, look for sheets that use chemical-free dyes and chlorine-free bleach. Coyuchi offers no-nonsense, organic cotton bedding like the sheets pictured above.
Launder your sheets once a week in hot water (at least 130 degrees), and then dry them completely in a hot dryer. A dye-free, scent-free detergent is your best bet. Duvet covers, blankets and shams that don't come into direct contact with your skin can be washed monthly.
Photo: Martha Stewart Living
Pillows
Allergy sufferers should opt for a natural fill pillow. According to Body & Soul magazine, "Synthetics, such as polyester, draw on nonrenewable resources and can be more hospitable to allergy and asthma triggers. Among natural fills, go organic when possible, as chemicals used in conventional fill production can contribute to headaches." Read the full text for how to choose between down, cotton, wool, natural latex-filled and buckwheat pillows.
Curtains
Dust mites can hide in curtains, as well as bedding. Wash curtains regularly in hot water as you would your bed linens. If replacing existing curtains, opt for washable natural fiber fabrics with a smooth surface. According to Self magazine, velour or other materials with a nap are to be avoided, as they are a more desirable habitats for mites.
Floor Coverings
The best types of floors for bedrooms are surfaces you can mop like wood, laminate, linoleum or tile. (If you've always hated your carpeting, this could be motivation to rip it up!) Many bedrooms are either fully or partially carpeted; to offset the dust -harboring properties of rugs, you'll need to get serious about vacuuming. Martha Stewart Living suggests you invest in a vacuum with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Alternately, if a new vacuum isn't in the budget, MSL says you should "vacuum with the windows open when possible and empty the canister after each use or change the bag before it gets full."
Air
Another element to consider is the air itself. Vacuuming with a HEPA filter vacuum will greatly improve air quality, but you can also opt for an air purifier. Air purification is a particularly important issue in newer homes where efficient windows and tight-fitting doors can seal in allergens and toxins. The New York Times has some great tips for sorting through the different air purifiers on the market.
Pets
Last but not least, no matter how much you love cuddling with you pup or cat, leave him or her out of the bed. Pet hair and dander can contribute to allergies and muddy paws lead to dirty sheets.
Want more advice to make your bedroom a haven? Read on:
Discover the Ingredients for the Coziest Bedroom Ever
A primer on Bedroom Feng Shui
