Expert Guide: Bamboo Bedding for Allergies

Allergies are incredibly serious, and they affect up to 21 million people across the UK. From seasonal hay fever to severe food allergies and everything in between, the effects they have vary from person to person. And there’s plenty you can do to mitigate the impact of an allergy on your life, which is where hypoallergenic products come in.

Our allergy-friendly bedding and sleep accessories, as well as our range of hypoallergenic bamboo towels, are all made with bamboo. The fabric of the future, bamboo is a sustainable, naturally antibacterial and oh-so-soft material that’s perfect for use in the home – and particularly the bedroom. It’s also hypoallergenic, which is the golden ticket for a lot of people suffering with allergies, skin sensitivities and more!

We sat down with Dr Helen Evans-Howells, a GP and allergy specialist doctor, to discuss all things bamboo in relation to allergies. Here’s what she had to say!

What natural properties make bamboo such a hypoallergenic material for allergy sufferers?

Bamboo is naturally resistant to house dust mites, bacteria, mould, and mildew due to its antimicrobial properties. These qualities reduce allergens that commonly trigger allergic reactions. Bamboo also has a smooth surface, which helps prevent the accumulation of dust and pollen compared to rougher fibres.

How does bamboo’s breathability and moisture-wicking ability help people with allergies, especially at night?

Many allergy sufferers, particularly those with house dust mite allergies, are particularly affected at night when they are surrounded by materials which often harbour the mites. Bamboo fabric helps regulate temperature and keeps the skin dry by drawing moisture away from the body. This prevents the growth of allergens such as mould and house dust mites that thrive in moist environments. For allergy sufferers, especially at night, this helps create a cooler, dryer sleeping environment, reducing the likelihood of allergy flare-ups.

In what ways does bamboo outperform materials like cotton when it comes to managing allergy symptoms?

Bamboo outperforms cotton in several ways:

Antibacterial properties: Bamboo naturally resists bacteria and fungi, which cotton does not.
Moisture-wicking: Bamboo absorbs moisture more efficiently, keeping the skin dry and minimising the growth of allergens like dust mites.
Fewer chemicals: Bamboo can be grown without the extensive use of pesticides or fertilisers that are often used in conventional cotton farming, which reduces exposure to allergens.

Why is bamboo such a great choice for people with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema?

Bamboo fibres are incredibly soft and smooth making them gentle on sensitive skin. Bamboo is less likely to cause rashes or irritation compared to synthetic fabrics or other plant-based materials.

What should readers look for in bamboo products (like specific certifications) to ensure they’re getting the most hypoallergenic benefits?

When shopping for bamboo products, look for:

OEKO-TEXⓇ Standard 100 certification: This certifies that the fabric is free from harmful chemicals.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) ensures that bamboo is grown and processed without harmful chemicals.
Bamboo Lyocell or Bamboo Viscose (closed-loop process): This method ensures minimal chemical usage during manufacturing, making the product more eco-friendly and hypoallergenic.

How can bamboo bedding or clothing improve the quality of life for someone with year-round allergies?

Individuals who suffer with house dust mite allergies particularly are affected year round. Their quality of sleep can be poor and fatigue can be a very real issue. Bamboo bedding creates a cleaner environment by being resistant to dust mites, mould, and mildew. This makes bamboo especially useful for year-round allergy sufferers. The moisture-wicking properties also help keep skin dry, preventing irritation and reducing allergic reactions.

Are there any standout benefits of bamboo for kids with allergies, such as in clothing or bedding?

Bamboo products are ideal for children with allergies because of their hypoallergenic nature and softness. Bamboo clothing and bedding are gentle on a child’s delicate skin
and reduce the risk of allergic reactions or skin irritations. Moreover, bamboo’s antibacterial properties help ensure the fabric remains clean and safe, which is especially beneficial for kids more susceptible to allergens.

What’s the most impressive thing bamboo does to create an allergen-free environment that most people might not realise?

One of the most impressive things bamboo does is that it naturally inhibits the growth of mould and house dust mites, which are common allergens. This is particularly important with environmental allergies, as bamboo’s ability to reduce allergen accumulation in fabrics helps to maintain a cleaner and healthier living space.

How should bamboo products be cared for to keep their hypoallergenic qualities intact over time?

To preserve bamboo’s hypoallergenic properties, it’s important to:

Wash bamboo products in mild detergent to avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the fabric.
Avoid fabric softeners and bleach, as they can irritate the skin and reduce the fabric’s natural properties.
Wash bamboo bedding or clothing regularly to remove any dust or allergens that may accumulate over time.
Dry bamboo products according to the manufacturer's instructions to maintain fabric integrity.

Why do you think bamboo deserves more attention as a go-to material for allergy sufferers?

Bamboo deserves more attention due to its natural, hypoallergenic properties, making it an excellent choice for people with allergies and sensitive skin. Its antibacterial, antifungal, and moisture-wicking abilities create a healthier environment and prevent common allergens like dust mites, mould, and bacteria. Bamboo is also eco-friendly, making it a sustainable option for those looking to improve their quality of life while being mindful of environmental impact. We have already made the switch to bamboo toilet rolls and products in our home, why not join us?

A huge thanks to Dr Helen for providing an insight into the hypoallergenic properties of bamboo! If you’re looking to improve your health and well-being or hoping to mitigate your allergy symptoms, you can shop our range of soft, smooth, hypoallergenic bamboo bedding and sleep accessories.