Waking up blocked and itchy? A "hypoallergenic" duvet will not fix it

Most hypoallergenic duvets just swap feathers for polyester. Dust mites live in polyester too. Here are the options that actually keep mites out of your duvet, side by side.

The comparison

What matters Duvet Protector Anti Allergy Duvet (eucalyptus) Anti Allergy Cotton Duvet Typical high-street "hypoallergenic" duvet
Keeps dust mites out Yes, full zip seal, blocks 100% of dust mites Yes, tight barrier weave shell Yes, tight cotton shell Usually no, standard microfibre shell
Deals with mites already in your duvet Yes, seals them in so they cannot reach you Yes, you start fresh Yes, you start fresh Only if you replace it
Washable at 60°C Yes Yes, whole duvet Yes, whole duvet Often 40°C only, check the label
Chemicals None, OEKO-TEX certified None, OEKO-TEX certified None Some rely on anti-allergy treatments that wash out
Feel Your own duvet, silky cover, no rustle Silky soft, cool, breathable Classic crisp cotton Varies
Best for Keeping a duvet you like Hot sleepers, eczema, replacing an old duvet People who prefer cotton, tighter budgets Feather allergy only
Price (Double) £169 £189 £149 Usually cheaper
Shop → Shop → Shop →

✔ NHS backed · ✔ No chemicals, OEKO-TEX certified · ✔ Washable at 60°C · ✔ Free next-day UK delivery · ✔ 1 year warranty

Which one should you choose?

If your duvet is fairly new and you like it, seal it. The Duvet Protector zips fully around it, seals in any mites already there and stops new ones getting in. Your normal duvet cover goes on top.

If your duvet is more than two years old, replace it. It is already full of mites and allergen. Start fresh with the Anti Allergy Duvet. If you run hot or have eczema, eucalyptus stays drier and feels cool on irritated skin.

If budget matters most, the Anti Allergy Cotton Duvet gives you the same tight shell and 60°C washing from £89.

Why a "hypoallergenic" label is not enough

A duvet sits on you for eight hours a night and collects skin flakes and moisture, which is exactly what dust mites feed and breed on. Within a year or two an ordinary duvet can hold thousands of mites. Swapping feathers for polyester does not change that. What matters is whether mites can get into the duvet, and whether you can kill any that do: a tight weave, 60°C washing, and no chemical coatings that wash out.

Don't stop at the duvet

The mattress holds the most dust mites in your bed, and the pillow is where you breathe all night. If your symptoms are worst at night or first thing in the morning, sealing all three makes the biggest difference. The Protector Set seals your mattress, pillows and duvet in one order.

Questions people ask

Is a hypoallergenic duvet the same as an anti allergy duvet?

Not always. "Hypoallergenic" usually only means no feathers. An anti allergy duvet should also stop dust mites getting into the filling and be washable at 60°C. Ours do both.

What tog should I choose?

9 tog suits most UK bedrooms all year round. If you sleep hot, the eucalyptus duvet feels cooler than its tog suggests.

How often should I wash it?

Every 1 to 3 months at 60°C, and wash your duvet cover weekly at 60°C. Dry it fully before putting it back on the bed.

Will it fit in my washing machine?

Single and Double fit most 8kg machines. For King and Super King, a 9kg+ drum or a launderette works best.

Can I claim VAT relief?

If you have a dust mite allergy, asthma or eczema you may be able to buy without the 20% VAT. Email hello@idustmite.com and we set the order up for you. See our VAT relief page.

Shop the Duvet Protector → Shop the Anti Allergy Duvet

Not sure which to pick? Call Richard on 0330 122 1646.