A study that was published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says that dust mite covers, also known as mattress protectors, have only a small and insignificant effect in the reduction of allergic reactions among people who are prone to develop the symptoms of allergies.
According to the research done by scientists and experts at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in New Orleans, there’s only at least a 20% chance mattress protectors actually help with runny nose, asthma, and skin problems; or that mattress covers can prevent the development of allergic reactions.
Says one of the scientists who is part of the research, the results of the study, which supposedly underwent 24 trial methods, “There doesn’t seem to be any benefit to using dust mite covers to prevent allergic disease or to prevent symptoms.”
“No evidence was found to support the use of impermeable mattress covers in the primary prevention of allergic disease or in the tertiary prevention of allergic disease symptoms.”
This study then belies claims from manufacturers and even doctors who recommend use of mattress covers to help with the symptoms. However, this still wouldn’t stop those in the industry from recommending the use of mattress covers, because the 20% can still help.
As one allergist puts it, “This article is helpful to show a single measure to control allergies is not always effective – we have to use multiple measures.” Mattress protectors alone cannot help with allergies, as there should be a complete treatment plan in effect.