How Do I Know If I Am Allergic To Bed Sheets?

Image of sick korean woman at home covered in warm clothes
At a glance

If bedtime leaves you sneezing or itchy, your sheets might be to blame. Learn how to spot the signs and fix the problem fast.

Quick tips
  • Choose hypoallergenic bedding like cotton or TENCEL™
  • Keep your bedroom clean and dust-free every week
  • Use a HEPA air purifier to reduce allergens indoors

Bedtime should be your time to relax, but if you're tossing and turning with a stuffy nose, sneezing, or coughing, you might just be allergic to bed sheets. 

Let’s chat about what these allergies look like, what causes them, and how you can ease the discomfort, so you can get the restful night you deserve.

Can Someone Be Allergic To Bed Sheets? 


Yes, it is possible to develop an allergy to bed sheets, though it’s not something most people encounter. For those who do, the cause is often linked to dust mites, which can accumulate in bedding and trigger symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, or even asthma. 

How Do I Know If I Am Allergic To My Sheets?


The most common signs of an allergy include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, a stuffy nose, and skin irritation, such as rashes or redness. If these symptoms tend to appear when you're in bed or soon after you wake up, your bedding could be the culprit. If this sounds familiar, it could be the answer to the question: Are my sheets making me sick?

Woman suffering from allergy

Image From Freepik

How To Get Rid Of Allergies In Bed?

Washing bedding, picking anti-allergy bed sheets, keeping your room clean, and more are some of the ways to prevent allergens from standing in your way. 

Here are some effective tips to help you banish allergies in bed:

  • Wash Bedding Regularly: Launder your bed sheets, duvets, and pillow cases at least once a week, ideally on a Sunday, to eliminate dust mites and allergens.
  • Choose Allergen-Free Bedding: Invest in hypoallergenic bedding and mattress protectors to shield yourself from dust mites. Opt for natural, breathable materials like cotton or TENCEL™ for added protection.
  • Keep Your Bedroom Clean: Regularly vacuum the floor and wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to remove dust and other allergens that might be lingering.
  • Use An Air Purifier: A high-quality HEPA air purifier can help clear the air of pollen, dust, and other allergens in your bedroom.
  • Keep Windows Closed: If outdoor allergens are a concern, keep your windows shut to prevent pollen from entering while you sleep.
  • Change Your Sheets After Illness: If you’ve been sick or suffered an allergic reaction, be sure to change your sheets to avoid reinfection or irritation.

close up bedding in blue

Featuring Weavve’s Signature TENCEL™ King Bed Sheets In Midnight Blue

What Does An Allergic Reaction To A Bed Bug Look Like?

They often lead to noticeable swelling around the affected areas. In some cases, people may also develop hives - raised, red patches on the skin. Reactions vary widely: while some may only experience mild irritation, others may face more pronounced swelling and discomfort. If you suspect an allergic reaction to bed bugs, it’s important to seek medical advice. 

A common question people ask is: "What does a fabric allergy look like?" These allergies often show up with symptoms like redness, itching, swelling, and, in some cases, blisters or hives. 

The skin may also feel warm or tender to the touch. These reactions can happen immediately after contact with the fabric or may develop over time, especially with repeated exposure.

Why Are My Bed Sheets So Itchy At Night?


A common culprit behind nighttime itching could be dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments like your bed. In Singapore's tropical climate, these tiny creatures can cause bed allergies, leading to allergic reactions that leave your skin feeling itchy and uncomfortable.

Another reason your bed might be making you itchy is if your sheets are made from fabrics that irritate your skin, such as rough cotton or synthetic materials. In humid conditions, fabric softeners or detergents can also leave behind residues that may trigger irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. 

Can New Bed Sheets Cause Itching?


Yes, new bed sheets can cause itching if they’re not washed before use. Often, new sheets have chemical coatings from the manufacturing process, which can irritate your skin. These residues may not be immediately noticeable, but they can cause discomfort. 

Washing your new sheets before using them helps remove these chemicals and softens the fabric, reducing the chances of irritation.

A person putting a bedsheet on their bed

Featuring Weavve’s Signature TENCEL™ Fitted Sheet

How Do You Know If You Have Dust Mites?

A common sign of dust mites is persistent itching, sneezing, or watery eyes, especially upon waking up. If you experience these dust mite allergy symptoms after spending time in bed, it could indicate that dust mites are present.

How Often Should You Change Your Sheets If You Have Allergies?


If you have allergies, it's recommended to change your sheets once a week. This helps eliminate dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens that can accumulate and trigger symptoms. 

For enhanced protection, consider using a mattress protector to guard your bed. Weavve's mattress covers crafted from 100% TENCEL™, are hypoallergenic, waterproof, and designed to create a cleaner, more comfortable sleep environment.

close up a mattress protector item

Featuring Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Mattress Protector

Skin-Friendly Bedding For You


Experiencing symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or skin irritation in bed could be a sign that you’re allergic to bed bug bites or dealing with other bedding-related allergies. The good news is that there are several ways to reduce discomfort and enhance your sleep environment. 

By investing in anti-allergy bedding, washing your sheets regularly, and using mattress protectors, you can create a cleaner, more comfortable sleep space.

Shop the story

Signature TENCEL™ Classic Set
best seller
Quick View
Signature TENCEL™ Classic Set
from $167.60$259.00

1 Fitted Sheet, 1 Duvet Cover and 2 Pillow Cases

Everyday TENCEL™ Classic Set
from $179.00

1 Fitted Sheet, 1 Duvet Cover and 2 Pillow Cases

TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet
best seller
Quick View
TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet
from $259.00$349.00