Anyone who has ever struggled with allergies knows how difficult life can be when you are gasping for breath.
Allergy sufferers will often build themselves a safe cocoon, but what about the one thing that's closest to their faces for a third of their lives? Shielding pillows from allergens can make restless nights a thing of the past.
Pillows can be a breeding ground for all sorts of pests, and a dumping ground for irritants.
Over time, dead skin cells accumulate, creating the most desired home for one of the least desired pests: dust mites.
Those cells can also irritate the inside of the nasal lining, causing swelling in almost any one, but especially wreaking havoc for allergy sufferers.
In addition, hair breaks down over time and skin oils accumulate, making pillows some pretty unsavory bedfellows.
However, there are options available.
First, take your pillows and wash them.
Check the tags for manufacturer's suggestions, but in general, you can wash them in hot water, either in a washing machine or by hand.
Next, toss them in the dryer on high heat (if allowed by the manufacturer).
The heat from the dryer will kill any pests that the washing process missed.
Here's a handy tip: Try tossing a couple of tennis balls into the dryer to help fluff the pillows and to pound out any remaining irritants.
One of the most common strategies for maintaining clean pillows is to use an anti-allergy pillow cover.
Many have shied away from these in the past because they were made out of plastic and made sleeping even more difficult.
However, technological advances have created better and more varied materials.
Some anti-allergy pillow covers are even made cotton, which allows for maximum comfort while providing maximum protection.
Some families have even chosen to use pillows filled with buckwheat hulls.
These pillows -- most popularly marketed under the name "Sobakawa" -- have long been hailed for their firm support of the head and neck, which relieves tension and backaches.
However, because buckwheat is less allergenic than down and other organic pillow fillers, they also provide relief for allergy sufferers looking to escape their allergy symptoms at night.
However, there are some people who are allergic to buckwheat, so shoppers are encouraged to check with their doctor to make sure a buckwheat pillow is a good option.
These simple steps will help alleviate those night time sniffles and stuffiness, improving your sleep and your daytime productivity.