Allergy Sensitive Quilts

For allergy sufferers, the best type of quilt is hypoallergenic, meaning it's specifically designed to minimise allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic quilts are made with materials that resist common allergens such as dust mites, mould, and pet dander. Here are some preferred materials:

• Microfibre: This synthetic material is tightly woven, making it difficult for allergens to penetrate. Quilts made from microfibre are often machine washable, making them easy to clean regularly.
• Silk: Silk is naturally hypoallergenic. It's resistant to dust mites and mould, providing a luxurious and allergy-friendly choice. However, silk quilts are often more expensive and may require special care.
• Bamboo: Quilts made from bamboo fibres are a great option as they are resistant to dust mites and mould. Plus, bamboo is an eco-friendly material.
• Tencel: Tencel is a type of fibre made from the wood pulp of eucalyptus trees. It's known for being smooth, breathable, and most importantly, hypoallergenic. Tencel quilts are resistant to dust mites and have excellent moisture-wicking properties, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers.

Remember, regardless of the type of hypoallergenic quilt you choose, frequent washing and airing are necessary to maintain its hypoallergenic properties.

Apart from the material, you should also consider the quilt's fill power and weight. Fill power refers to the quilt's insulating ability, while weight affects the comfort level. Lightweight quilts are generally preferred by allergy sufferers as they are easier to clean and dry thoroughly, which helps prevent the build-up of allergens. Furthermore, look for quilts that come with an allergen-barrier cover for added protection. These covers are often made from tightly woven fabric to prevent allergens from penetrating the quilt.

Remember, everyone's allergies are different, so what works best for one person might not work for another. It's important to consider personal needs and preferences when choosing the best quilt for allergy sufferers.

The terms "hypoallergenic" and "allergy sensitive" are often used in the context of products designed to minimise allergic reactions. However, their meanings and implications can differ:

• Hypoallergenic: This term is commonly used to describe products or materials that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. Hypoallergenic items are designed to minimise the risk of triggering allergies, although they cannot entirely eliminate this risk. These products may be created using materials that are naturally less likely to cause allergies or treated to reduce their allergenic properties. The term hypoallergenic doesn't have a strict definition or regulation in many jurisdictions, so it's essential for consumers to carefully review product materials and testing standards.
• Allergy sensitive: This term is less commonly used but generally refers to products that are safe or suitable for individuals with specific allergies. These products take into account the needs and sensitivities of individuals with certain types of allergies. However, like "hypoallergenic," the term "allergy sensitive" isn't universally defined or regulated. Therefore, it's necessary for consumers to examine the product information and ensure it's suitable for their specific needs.

It's important to note that both "hypoallergenic" and "allergy sensitive" do not guarantee the absence of an allergic reaction. Even products labelled with these terms may contain allergens that could trigger reactions in certain individuals. Everyone's allergies are unique, and a product that works well for one person might still cause a reaction in someone else. Therefore, people with severe allergies should always consult with a healthcare professional or allergist before using new products. In the case of products like quilts or other bedding materials, seeking items with a certified label from a recognised allergy organisation can provide additional assurance of their suitability.

Choosing a quilt for asthma sufferers is important because certain materials can trigger symptoms. A good quilt for asthma sufferers should be hypoallergenic, resisting allergens like dust mites and mould spores that can exacerbate asthma. Below are some preferred materials:

• Microfibre: Quilts made from microfibre are tightly woven and thus less likely to harbour allergens. These quilts are usually machine washable, allowing regular cleaning to remove potential triggers.
• Tencel: Derived from eucalyptus trees, Tencel is a smooth, breathable and hypoallergenic material. Tencel quilts resist dust mites and have excellent moisture-wicking properties, making them a good option for asthma sufferers.
• Bamboo: Bamboo quilts are known for their resistance to dust mites and mould. Plus, bamboo is an eco-friendly material.


Asthma sufferers should clean their quilts regularly to maintain their hypoallergenic properties.

Besides the material, it's also vital to consider the quilt's weight and fill power. Fill power refers to the insulating ability of a quilt, while the weight influences comfort. Lightweight quilts are generally preferred as they are easier to wash and dry thoroughly, reducing allergen build-up. Also, opt for quilts that come with allergen-barrier covers. These covers, often made from tightly woven fabric, add an extra layer of protection against allergens.

Remember, individual responses to different materials can vary widely. What works best for one person may not necessarily work for another. Therefore, personal comfort and preferences should be considered when choosing a quilt for asthma sufferers. It's also advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an allergist for individual advice.

Tencel and bamboo are the top choices for asthma sufferers. Both naturally resist dust mites and manage moisture efficiently, reducing the damp conditions where allergens thrive. Bambi's Tencel and Ingeo quilts carry the National Asthma Council's Sensitive Choice approval. Microfibre (down alternative) quilts are also excellent because they're fully machine washable at higher temperatures, making regular allergen removal easy. See the Australian Quilt Buying Guide for more on choosing between materials.

They mean slightly different things in practice. "Hypoallergenic" means the product is less likely to cause an allergic reaction — it's about the material's inherent properties. "Allergy sensitive" typically means the product has been designed or treated specifically for people who have existing allergies (e.g., antimicrobial-treated fills). Neither term guarantees zero allergic reaction. For the strongest assurance, look for the Sensitive Choice Blue Butterfly certification from the National Asthma Council Australia.

Possibly. The feathers themselves aren't usually the allergen — it's the dust mites that accumulate inside the quilt over time. High-quality down quilts are thoroughly washed during manufacturing, and many allergy sufferers use them without issues. However, down quilts typically cannot be machine washed at home, which makes regular allergen removal harder. If allergies are severe, a Tencel, bamboo, or microfibre quilt that can be washed frequently at home is a more practical long-term choice.

Every 3–6 months as a minimum. If symptoms are severe, wash more frequently. Always use a quilt cover and wash that weekly — the cover catches most surface allergens before they reach the quilt fill. Between washes, air the quilt outdoors in sunlight periodically. Always follow the manufacturer's specific care instructions for wash temperature and drying.

Wool sensitivity is usually a reaction to lanolin, the natural oil in sheep's wool. Two alternatives maintain similar warmth and breathability: alpaca (contains no lanolin and is naturally dust-mite resistant) and Tencel (plant-based, antibacterial, Sensitive Choice approved).