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Bedding and Eczema
How to Choose the Right Bedding for Sensitive Skin
If you or your child suffers from eczema, you probably know how difficult bedtime can be. Itchy skin, overheating and uncomfortable bedding can turn a peaceful night's sleep into hours of scratching and discomfort.
But did you know that the bedding you sleep in could be making your eczema worse?
From the materials used in your sheets to dust mites hiding in your mattress, there are several things that can affect sensitive skin.
Choosing the Right Bedding for Eczema
1. How Can Bedding Affect Eczema?
Discover how rough fabrics, overheating, dust mites and washing detergents can irritate sensitive skin.
2. Best Bedding Materials for Eczema
Soft, breathable fabrics such as cotton can help reduce friction and overheating. Bamboo-based fabrics and silk may also feel comfortable.
3. Bedding Materials to Avoid
Wool, rough fabrics, heavy fleece and some synthetic materials can cause irritation or trap heat.
4. Dust Mites and Eczema
Dust mites live in mattresses, pillows and bedding. Regular washing and reducing humidity can help limit exposure to these allergens.
5. Best Duvets and Pillows for Eczema
Choose lightweight, washable duvets and comfortable pillows with breathable covers to help prevent overheating.
Bedding Care and Better Sleep
1. How Often Should You Wash Bedding?
Wash sheets and duvet covers weekly and pillowcases once or twice a week. Follow care labels and wash suitable bedding at 60°C to help kill dust mites.
2. Washing Detergents and Eczema
Choose fragrance-free detergents and avoid heavily scented fabric conditioners if they irritate your skin. An extra rinse may help.
3. Why Does Eczema Get Itchier at Night?
Heat, sweating and dry skin can increase itching. Use breathable bedding, moisturise regularly and keep the bedroom comfortable.
4. Bedding for Children With Eczema
Choose soft cotton bedding, lightweight covers and gentle washing products. Always follow safe-sleep advice for babies.
5. Do You Need Expensive Anti-Allergy Bedding?
Not always. Comfortable cotton bedding, regular washing and avoiding known triggers are good starting points.
What to Look For
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Fragrance-free washing products.
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Dye-free detergents.
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Products that rinse out easily.
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A detergent your skin already tolerates.
What to Avoid if It Irritates Your Skin
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Strongly perfumed detergents.
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Scent boosters.
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Fragranced fabric conditioners.
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Using more detergent than necessary.
Useful tip: Try an extra rinse cycle to help remove detergent residue.
There is no strong evidence that non-biological washing powder is always better for eczema than biological detergent. What matters is finding a product that doesn't irritate your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cotton or polyester better for eczema?
Cotton is generally a better starting choice because it's breathable and comfortable against sensitive skin. Some people also tolerate soft polyester fabrics.
Can dirty bedding cause eczema flare-ups?
Sweat, irritants and allergens can build up on bedding and may contribute to flare-ups in susceptible people. Regular washing helps keep bedding clean.
Should I wash my bedding at 60°C?
A 60°C wash can help kill dust mites, but only use it for bedding that can safely withstand that temperature.
Can dust mites cause eczema?
Dust mites can trigger or worsen symptoms in some people who are allergic or sensitive to them. They do not cause all cases of eczema.
What is the best duvet for someone with eczema?
A lightweight, washable duvet with a breathable cotton cover is a good starting point.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes Can Make a Difference
Bedding might not be the first thing you think about when dealing with eczema, but it can play an important part in your comfort at night.
Choosing breathable materials, washing bedding regularly and reducing exposure to known irritants could help make sleeping more comfortable.
Remember, everyone's eczema is different. What works for one person may not work for another.
Start with simple changes, pay attention to how your skin reacts and find what works best for you.
Medical References and Further Reading
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NHS – Atopic Eczema – Eczema symptoms, triggers and treatments.
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National Eczema Society – Household Irritants and Eczema – Practical advice on bedding, fabrics and irritants.
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National Eczema Society – Sleep and Eczema – Managing sleep difficulties and choosing bedding.
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Allergy UK – Eczema Triggers and Irritants – Information about household allergens and dust mites.
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American Academy of Dermatology – Eczema Skin Care – Dermatologist advice on reducing irritation.