Do Feather Pillows Have More Dust Mites Than Foam Pillows?

According to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, dust mites are tiny creatures that live comfortably in human bedding, from mattresses to pillows. Changing the type of pillow used in a home can affect the amount of dust mites living in the bedding.

Function

• Dust mites require relatively high humidity levels to live, states the University of Kentucky. Feather pillows can harbor molds and moisture since they do not dry quickly after being washed, so dust mites find refuge in this warm, moist pillow.

Effects

• By exchanging a feather pillow for a foam pillow, there is less moisture for the dust mites to grow and multiply.

Misconceptions

• Dust mites do not harm people by biting or burrowing, but produce allergens, such as feces and body pieces, within the household dust.

Theories/Speculation

• Reducing the amount of porous bedding in the house, such as feather pillows, can help alleviate the growing population of dust mites. Synthetic fabrics and items, such as foam pillows, hinder the life cycle of dust mites.

Interesting Fact

• Dust mite growth also can be hindered by using plastic, allergen covers on mattresses and pillows, declares the University of Kentucky.