If you often find yourself waking up congested, sneezing, or with itchy eyes, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with allergies in the bedroom at night, particularly during pollen season in Ireland. The good news is that one of the most effective ways to reduce these symptoms is by switching to anti-allergy bedding. From dust mites to pollen and pet dander, these invisible irritants can sabotage your sleep. The right bedding can form a barrier between you and these triggers, offering you the chance for a restful, allergen-free night’s sleep.
Explore our full Bedroom Collection for allergy-friendly bedding options.
Why Do Allergies Get Worse at Night?
You may have noticed your allergy symptoms peaking just as you’re winding down for bed. That’s no coincidence. Allergens tend to settle in bedding, pillows, and mattresses—especially in rooms with poor ventilation. During hayfever season in Ireland, open windows can allow seasonal allergens like pollen to drift inside and accumulate on soft surfaces. This leads to more intense allergies at night and a higher chance of waking up with congestion or itchy skin.
In our Summer Bedding Guide, we discuss how warmer months and increased pollen levels can affect your comfort. Thankfully, anti allergy bedding provides a first line of defence by reducing your exposure to common irritants while you sleep.
What is Anti Allergy Bedding and How Does It Work?
Anti allergy bedding is designed with materials that either repel or block allergens such as dust mites, mould spores, pollen, and pet dander. This type of bedding is typically made using tightly woven fabrics or treated with anti-microbial finishes, creating a physical barrier that prevents allergens from penetrating your sleeping space.
By reducing common irritants, anti allergy bedding supports healthier breathing, fewer symptoms like sneezing or congestion, and more restful sleep—especially important during hayfever season in Ireland.
Anti Allergy Duvets
When choosing the best duvet for allergies, synthetic fillings such as hollowfibre are often preferred over feather or down, as they are less likely to harbour allergens. Look for duvets that can be washed at 60°C, which helps eliminate dust mites effectively.
Explore our Duvets Category, Duvet Covers, or find the perfect Summer Duvet Tog for light, breathable comfort during allergy season.
Anti Allergy Bed Sheets
Materials like tight-weave cotton or bamboo naturally block allergen particles while also being breathable and gentle on sensitive skin. These anti allergy bed sheets offer a dual benefit: comfort and protection.
Shop our range of Bed Sheets designed with sensitive sleepers in mind.
Pillow & Mattress Protectors
An often overlooked hero, a good pillow protector or mattress protector acts as a shield against allergens. Look for zip-closure designs that are breathable and easy to wash.
What to Look for When Buying the Best Anti Allergy Bedding
Not all bedding is created equal when it comes to allergen resistance. Here’s what to prioritise:
1. Consider the Fabric Type
Cotton: breathable and washable, but not all cotton is tightly woven enough to block allergens.
Microfibre: synthetic and tightly woven—ideal for forming a physical barrier.
Bamboo: naturally hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking, great for bedding for sensitive skin.
2. Check If Your Bedding Can Be Washed at 60°C
This is the temperature required to kill dust mites and eliminate allergens. Many anti allergy duvets and protectors are machine-washable—just check the label.
3. Look for Certifications
Trustworthy labels like Oeko-Tex® and the Allergy UK Seal of Approval ensure the bedding meets health and safety standards for allergen control.
4. Know the Difference: Hypoallergenic vs. Anti-Allergy
“Hypoallergenic bedding Ireland” typically means it’s less likely to cause irritation, while anti allergy bedding is actively designed to prevent allergen exposure.
Tips to Reduce Allergies in the Bedroom
While switching to dust mite resistant bedding is essential, adopting certain habits can further reduce your exposure to allergens:
1. Wash Sheets Weekly at High Temperatures
Launder your sheets and pillowcases at 60°C to eliminate dust mites and allergens. Don’t forget—some anti allergy duvets and protectors can also go in the wash.
2. Use Dust Mite-Proof Pillow Protectors
Pillow protectors with zip closures create a barrier that stops allergens from entering your pillows. Choose breathable, washable options to maintain comfort.
3. Remove Carpets or Vacuum Regularly
Carpets easily trap allergens. If removal isn’t possible, use a HEPA filter vacuum at least twice weekly to reduce indoor irritants.
4. Air the Room Daily
Letting in fresh air each day helps decrease indoor pollutants and moisture levels. Open windows in the early morning or evening to avoid peak pollen levels in Ireland.
5. Shower Before Bed During Pollen Season
Showering and changing clothes after being outdoors prevents the transfer of pollen to your bed—an essential step during hayfever season in Ireland.
Sleep Better with Shaws Department Stores
At Shaws, we believe better sleep begins with small, thoughtful changes. Switching to anti allergy bedding is one of the most impactful steps you can take, especially during Ireland’s peak allergy seasons. From duvets to pillow protectors, we offer comfort-first solutions for cleaner, healthier sleep.
Discover more in our Sleep Experience Guide, or Contact Us for tailored recommendations.