Hi Andrew,

That's a great question and thanks for getting in touch about mattress advice.

Dust mites are a tricky one and can aggravate peoples allergies especially with asthmatics. The issue with mattresses hygiene is an important one and not many people realise that the primary reasons that people get allergies in bed are due to lack of proper mattress maintenance.

It's not really an issue of natural vs synthetic fibres as such. A natural fibre mattress is no worse than a polyester fibre mattress at collecting and storing dust ie dead skin and detritus. It's a bit of an urban myth that dust mites live off wool and what not. It's actually dead skin and protein they live off. ie Human waste!

In fact, there is an argument that the breathability of a natural fibre mattress helps reduce moisture which also acts as a perfect breeding ground along with dead skin for a dust mite. Mattress maintenance is key to the problem you've highlighted.

Reducing dust mites in bed:

The best option for allergy sufferers is a really rigorous mattress maintenance routine to reduce the habitat for dust mites. This includes:

• Washing your bedding weekly on a 60-degree wash
• Using a mattress protector (where most dead skin will sit) washing this weekly too
• The monthly turning of your mattress
• Rotating your mattress every other month
• Vacuum the surface of your mattress each month
• Vacuuming under your bed monthly
• Airing your room daily to avoid humidity
• Not using your bedroom to dry clothes

Whats a hypoallergenic mattress?

If you're looking for a hypoallergenic mattress then we have a really detailed article here. It must be noted that hypoallergenic just refer to 'synthetic' fibres in mattress terminology. Which in turn are warmer than a natural fibre and sill will allow dust to build up, the same with memory foam and latex mattresses.

What's the coolest mattress?

We would recommend you looking at the Artisan Naturals if you're looking for a cool, breathable, two-sided mattress. It comes in a variety of spring tensions depending on your body weight and offers a medium feel in the upholstery layer.

If you're looking for a synthetic alternative then our Origins Pocket 1500 will give a medium feel, is still two-sided but will retain slightly more heat than the Artisan Naturals.

If you want to give us a call to discuss the further specifics then we can offer you even more tailored advice.
We hope the above helps.

All the best
John & Ryan