How to Choose Baby Bedding that’s Good for Allergies and Eczema

Did you know the bedding you choose for your baby can affect their health? Babies with allergies or eczema often struggle to stay comfortable because their bedding might irritate their sensitive skin. This is why choosing the right bedding is so important for babies with allergies and eczema—it can help prevent irritation and keep their symptoms under control. When your baby is healthy, mum can find her happy place too.

Allergy symptoms in babies and toddlers

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, allergic rhinitis is the most common allergy-related condition in children. In babies and toddlers, allergies can look like sneezing, coughing, skin rashes, eczema, itchy eyes, or even runny noses—symptoms that are often mistaken for colds or teething. The only definitive way to determine if allergies are the cause is through a medical allergy test that your doctor can provide.

Why is bedding important for kids with allergies and eczema?

Babies and toddlers spend a lot of time in their cribs. Some types of bedding can trap dust mites, allergens, or even moisture that irritates the skin but according to Dust Mite Allergy Solutions (https://www.dustmiteallergysolutions.com.au/) “There are so many natural, allergy-friendly products available for cots, giving parents great options.”

What to look for if you have a child prone to allergies or eczema? Here are our top tips:

What are the best fabrics?

One of the best things you can do is choose bedding made from natural materials like eucalyptus, organic cotton or bamboo (https://www.dustmiteallergysolutions.com.au/collections/eczema-friendly-cot-sheets). These fabrics are soft and breathable, which means they help keep your baby cool and dry during the night and will be less likely to trigger allergic reactions or irritate eczema-prone skin.

Organic cotton is also a great option because it’s grown without harmful chemicals, so it’s safer for your baby. 

Bamboo is another excellent choice because it’s naturally hypoallergenic and really good at wicking away moisture, which can help prevent eczema flare-ups.

Synthetic fabrics are not ideal

It might be tempting to go for synthetic fabrics like polyester because it is  cheaper, but according to this Guide to Hypoallergenic Bedding (https://www.dustmiteallergysolutions.com.au/blogs/dustmiteblog/sleep-tight-the-ultimate-guide-to-hypoallergenic-bedding-for-dust-mite-allergies ) they aren’t always the best choice for sensitive skin because synthetic materials often contain chemicals that can be harsh on sensitive skin and  they can trap heat and moisture, making eczema symptoms worse.

Keep bedding clean and create a barrier for allergens

No matter how good the bedding is, it’s important to keep it clean. Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens can be trapped on sheets and mattress over time. Washing the bedding regularly with gentle, fragrance free detergent in hot water will help get rid of these allergens.

It’s also a good idea to use a dust mite mattress protector (https://www.dustmiteallergysolutions.com.au/collections/mattress-protectors).These protectors are specifically designed to create a barrier between your little one and the mattress, which helps prevent dust mites and other allergens from causing irritation and allergic reactions. 

Choose blanket that breathes

Sweating can make skin prone to eczema flare up. That’s why it’s important to look for lightweight blankets and sheets that keep your baby warm without overheating.

Don’t forget to follow SIDS guidelines “Blankets should be firmly tucked in to the sides of the cot and to the height of the chest of the baby.” 

Creating a healthy sleep environment for your baby doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing natural, breathable fabrics, avoiding synthetic materials, and keeping their bedding clean, you can make a big difference in managing allergies and eczema. Follow these simple guidelines to help create a healthier sleep environment for your little one.

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