Hypoallergenic Mattress Brands To Try If You Have Sensitive Skin

For most people, there's nothing better than the feeling of crawling into bed after a long day. Our beds are the ultimate place of comfort, a relaxation zone where we can escape the stress and anxieties of hectic workdays.

But if your mattress is bad, chances are your bed isn't the haven you wish it was. A bad mattress can cause problems ranging from back and neck pain, stress, and tiredness from poor sleep quality, and prolonged allergies and skin problems (via Wholesale Mattress Center).

According to industry insiders, mattresses that are over eight years old are filled with dead skin cells, sweat, and millions of dust mites. And this isn't just a sales gimmick: According to retired Ohio State University professor of entomology, Dr. Glen Needham, "Every mattress is a crime scene in terms of how it gets inoculated with mites," (via Slate). "All you have to do is get a female dust mite to start laying eggs, and pretty soon you have a starter set going in your mattress," Needham told Slate.

The combination of dead skin and dust mites found in old mattresses can make them a hotbed for allergens and skin irritants. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 50 percent of Americans suffer from allergies, and 84 percent of American allergy sufferers experience allergy symptoms in the home (via Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America).

Allergic reactions to dust mites or even mold and mildew in your mattress can cause symptoms from a runny nose and sneezing to skin rashes and breakouts (via Mattress Genius).

If you've been struggling with allergies and skin issues that you think could be tied to your mattress, it might be time to consider purchasing a new one. And because a new mattress can be an expensive purchase, choosing a hypoallergenic mattress can help you sleep comfortably for longer.

According to Furniture.com, a hypoallergenic mattress is one that inhibits the propagation of allergen-causing microorganisms like dust mites, bacteria, mold, and fungus. Hypoallergenic mattresses prevent these microorganisms from penetrating the exterior of the mattress, which means they're unable to get inside the mattress and breed there.

When considering a hypoallergenic mattress, look for materials like memory foam and latex and avoid mattresses with springs. Innerspring mattresses leave pockets of air that are attractive to dust mite colonies, and are not considered hypoallergenic.

In addition to choosing a latex or memory foam mattress that is hypoallergenic, you can add increased protection by choosing an allergy-proof mattress cover that can create a barrier between your body and any dust mites that might have snuck into your mattress (via Self). Also, ensuring that you wash your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week in hot water can help prevent any allergic reactions or skin sensitivities caused by your mattress.

Luckily, if you have sensitive skin and are looking to buy a new mattress, there are lots of options on the market.

According to Sleep Foundation, the Awara mattress is rated the best mattress overall for people with sensitive skin and allergies. The Awara mattress' breathable, moisture-wicking cover is made with organic cotton and wool imported from New Zealand. The cover naturally resists dust mites, and beneath it, a layer of natural, hypoallergenic Dunlop latex also helps prevent dust mites and the buildup of mold and mildew. The mattress has a 365-day trial period, so if you don't like it, you can always return it and continue your search for the perfect hypoallergenic mattress.

At a slightly lower price point, the Avocado Green mattress is still an organic, hypoallergenic option for sleepers with skin sensitivities. Because Avocado's mattresses are made with only certified organic materials, you won't have to worry about your skin reacting to harsh chemicals or other materials (via Sleep Foundation). The Avocado mattress' use of Dunlop latex also keeps out dust mites.

Other mattress brands that specialize in hypoallergenic mattresses include Botanical Bliss, Eden Sleep, and Puffy Lux (via Bedroom Style Reviews). Many companies make hypoallergenic mattresses: Just look out for natural materials, latex, and memory foam, and avoid innersprings, and you'll be on your way to a more restful and healthy sleep.