They may not be visible to the naked eye, but dust mites are all over the place including in upholstered furniture, pillows and mattresses. As allergies go, reactions to dust mites are common, with the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) estimating around 20 million Americans suffer from dust mite allergies.

Dust mite exposure is a significant factor in the development of asthma in children, so it makes sense to take precautions, particularly for babies whose systems are very sensitive and who can’t use words to explain what ails them.  Conventional crib mattresses also emit a whole host of toxic chemicals that are not good for babies. Because the crib mattress is the most prominent piece of furniture where babies might spend half of their day sleeping and playing, buying an organic crib mattress is a great place to begin in your efforts to eliminate harmful chemicals and allergens that your baby could be exposed to.

Organic mattresses are made without the harmful chemicals found in conventional mattresses. The waterproof surface of the organic crib mattresses we carry acts as a dust mite barrier that covers the entire mattress. Seamless models mean no access points for mites or contaminants and also mean an easy wipe-clean surface. Our crib mattresses are waterproofed with food grade polyethylene, meaning they do not have phthalates which are found in dust mite covers made with vinyl. We also offer a 2-sided mattress for older children with one side waterproofed, so it has a dust mite barrier on one side.

Experts also recommend washing sheets at least weekly for dust mite control, but you’ll be likely doing that anyway with a baby. Additionally, both to prevent exposure to dust mites and to reduce the risk of SIDS, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends not placing pillows, covers, bumper or stuffed animals in a crib at all.

Dust mites are a part of nature, so you won’t eliminate them completely, particularly in humid climates, but you can limit their allergenic effects to your baby.

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