Myth or miracle? We tried anti-microbial silver-infused sheets for allergies

Silver-infused bedsheets sound exactly like the kind of bedding upgrade allergy sufferers dream about.Allegedly, these sheets can fight bacteria, fungi and odor, meaning you may wake up less itchy and congested.Unfortunately, allergies are rarely that simple.“Silver is an antimicrobial, meaning it fights bacteria and fungi, which is why you see it marketed for odor and freshness,” says Saira Q.

Zafar, M.D., a board-certified allergist/immunologist at Schweiger Dermatology & Allergy in Millburn, New Jersey.“But the triggers that actually set off allergies aren’t bacteria.”Most bedroom allergies are triggered by dust mites, pollen and other allergens that collect in mattresses, pillows and bedding.

It’s important to remember that “antimicrobial” and “anti-allergy” are not the same thing.Silver may help fabric stay fresher between washes, but it doesn’t necessarily reduce the particles that set off allergy symptoms.To find out whether silver-infused sheets are a miracle buy or another passing trend, we tested a set ourselves and asked Dr.

Zafar what these sheets can — and cannot — realistically do.Pros:Cons:I’ve used these sheets for a little over two weeks now and love how they don’t just feel cool to the touch but fresh every night.I have the Arctic White version, and I usually shy away from white sheets because they stain easily or start to look grimy after a few nights.

Not these.The fabric is moisture-wicking, and the sheets themselves are embedded with silver yarn, which is designed to help protect against bacteria.I will say, even though they’re breathable, I was still sweating in them.

But given that New York was suffering through a heat wave when I tested, that was to be expected.I do think they helped with my sleep quality, though.Ever since I switched, I’ve been sleeping through the night.

I was also dealing with a throat infection while testing them, and while I can’t say the sheets cured anything, I did feel li...