A Guide to Eczema-Friendly Bedding for Aussies

Living with eczema can make a good night’s sleep feel like a dream just out of reach—especially when heat, allergens, or scratchy materials keep you up at night. Some bedding materials are better than others.

Here in Australia, where temperatures vary widely across seasons and regions, choosing the right bedding for eczema-prone skin is even more important. Let’s explore what to look for, what to avoid, and how to build a sleep setup that gives your skin a break.

Temperature and Sweat: Two of Eczema’s Worst Enemies

People with eczema often have trouble regulating their body temperature, and overheating or sweating during the night can trigger intense itching. If you wake up itchy or damp, your bedding might be part of the problem.

Tips:

• Choose lightweight, breathable bedding. In most Australian climates, a low tog rating (1.5–4.5) is best.
• Layer two light quilts in winter instead of using one heavy one, so you can adjust as needed.
• Avoid memory foam mattresses—they retain heat and restrict airflow.

Dust Mites: Tiny But Mighty Triggers

House dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions and love to live in mattresses, pillows and quilts—feeding off skin flakes. Their droppings are a major allergen for people with eczema.

What You Can Do:

• Wash sheets and pillowcases at least twice a week in hot water (60°C or above).
• Wash pillows and doonas every 4–6 weeks at 60°C if possible.
• Use a hot tumble dryer setting where safe.
• Vacuum your mattress regularly.
• Replace your mattress every 8–10 years—or sooner if eczema is a big issue.
• Use dust-mite-proof mattress and pillow protectors that fully encase the bedding.

What Bedding is Best for Eczema Sufferers?

The best bedding for eczema sufferers is breathable, hypoallergenic, and gentle on sensitive skin. Opt for 100% cotton or bamboo sheets, low-tog duvets, and dust mite-proof mattress and pillow protectors.

Avoid memory foam and synthetic fabrics that trap heat and irritate the skin. Wash bedding regularly at 60°C to reduce allergens and improve sleep comfort.

Cotton

• Highly recommended—soft, breathable and moisture-absorbing.
• Look for 100% cotton in a percale or sateen weave (avoid cheap cotton that pills).
• Use cotton for sheets, doona covers, and protectors.

Bamboo

• Naturally hypoallergenic, soft, and thermoregulating.
• A good option for sensitive skin in warmer Aussie climates.
• Downsides: needs gentle washing at 40°C, which won’t kill dust mites.

Silk

• Smooth and gentle on sore skin.
• Regulates temperature and repels dust mites.
• High-maintenance: usually requires low-temp washing or professional cleaning.

Wool

• Surprisingly effective due to its dryness and breathability.
• Helps regulate temperature and is dust-mite-resistant.
• Some people with eczema may react to lanolin—patch test first.
• Wash on delicate or wool-specific cycles.

What to Wear to Sleep with Eczema

For eczema-prone skin, wear soft, breathable eczema sleepwear made from natural fibres like 100% cotton, bamboo, or silk. Choose loose-fitting pyjamas to reduce friction and irritation, and avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat and moisture. Tag-free seams and built-in mittens can help prevent scratching during sleep.

 

Choosing the Right Mattress if You Struggle with Eczema

An eczema friendly mattress is a big investment, and the wrong one can worsen eczema. If buying new isn’t an option, start with a 100% cotton or bamboo mattress protector to see if it makes a difference.

Avoid:

• Innerspring mattresses (ideal breeding ground for mites).
• Memory foam (traps heat).

Try:

• Natural latex mattresses: breathable, mite-resistant and long-lasting.
• Look for certified, hypoallergenic options and speak to your GP if you have a latex allergy.

Final Tips from Aussie Families with Eczema

• Don’t overhaul everything at once. Try changing one item—like your doona or sheets—before replacing the lot.
• Stick to your regular skincare routine while trialling new bedding.
• Keep an eye out for emollient residue on bedding—it can build up and irritate skin.
• Look for reputable Australian retailers offering certified organic and hypoallergenic bedding options.

Managing eczema is all about the little things, and choosing the right bedding can make a big difference in your sleep and skin health. It might take a bit of trial and error, but with the right setup, you’re well on your way to waking up less itchy and more rested.

FAQs – What is the Best Bedding for Eczema?

Is cotton or bamboo better for eczema?

Both are excellent choices. Cotton is widely available, breathable, and absorbent. Bamboo is softer, more thermoregulating, and naturally antimicrobial, but it’s more delicate and usually requires gentler washing.

Do dust mites make eczema worse?

Yes. Dust mite droppings are a common trigger for eczema flare-ups. Using dust mite-proof mattress and pillow protectors and washing bedding at 60°C regularly can help reduce exposure.

What kind of quilt or doona is best for eczema?

Choose a low tog, lightweight quilt with a 100% cotton or bamboo cover. Avoid heavy doonas or memory foam inserts that trap heat and moisture, which can worsen itching.

Are silk sheets good for eczema?

Yes. Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, smooth, and dust mite-resistant, making it a great option for sensitive skin. Medical-grade silk bedding has shown benefits in clinical studies, especially for children with atopic eczema.

How often should you wash bedding if you have eczema?

Wash sheets and pillowcases at least twice a week in hot water (60°C). Wash doonas and pillows every 4–6 weeks. Frequent washing helps remove dust mites, sweat, bacteria, and emollient residue.

What are the best pillow and mattress protectors for eczema?

Use fully encased dust mite-proof mattress and pillow protectors made from tightly woven fabric. Look for ones labelled effective against dust mites and allergens. Add a soft cotton or bamboo layer on top for comfort.

Can bedding alone improve eczema symptoms?

Bedding can support eczema management, but it's not a cure. It works best when combined with a good skincare routine, avoidance of triggers, and medical advice where needed.

This article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider if you or your child experiences eczema flare-ups or skin sensitivities.