The dust mite mattress cover is your primary defense against dust mite allergies that seem to target so many people all over the world. Most doctors recommend to actually cover the bedding including the pillows and mattress in dust mite mattress covers, that are zippered and allergy proof.

But first of all, what is dust mite allergy? According to the Mayo Clinic, it is "an immune system reaction to a certain dust mite protein. This reaction triggers inflammation in the lining of the nasal passages (allergic rhinitis), causing sneezing, runny nose and other signs and symptoms associated with hay fever."

Many people who have dust mite allergy eventually start developing asthma, with symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath and other breathing related problems. Dust mites can not be seen by the naked eye, except only when looking at them through a microscope. So you might have them on your bed and not even know it. Unfortunately most homes with upholstered furniture and carpets have them as these tiny bugs love this kind of environment where they totally strive.

If you're not sure whether you are suffering by symptoms of allergies due to dust mites, here are a few ways to recognize them:

• Hay fever
• Running nose
• Constant sneezing
• Watering, itchy and red eyes
• Symptoms of asthma
• Frequent awakening during the night
• Coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Postnasal drip
• swollen blueish skin under your eyes

If you find yourself with several of these symptoms, it is time to take the matters in your own hand and get yourself a dust mite mattress cover.

Several manufacturers have started making dust mite mattress covers that effectively protect your mattress and your pillow from these little critters so harmful to your health. Usually these allergy mattress covers trip over 99% of not only dust mites but also pollen and animal dander. And if you're wondering, yes, the good quality ones also stop bed bugs.

You can find nowadays many different types that help with this problem and it all depends on your budget and the material you want to get, including cotton which is maybe the safest material out there that protects your bed properly.

No matter the type you buy, you will find that Amazon has the best discounts on their selection, so you are best served if you buy directly from them.

One of the best brands is the AllerZip mattress protector which is additionally waterproof. It protects either the mattress or the box spring. The AllerZip encasements are one of the best ways to protect yourself against this infestation.

Made of cotton, it is soft and very comfortable under the bed sheets. With this brand you get full 10 years warranty, which is more than most manufacturers offer. Before you use it the first time, make sure to wash it to remove the starch that was used when producing the fabric.

Here are a few additional things you need to know about your AllerZip mattress protector:

• If you are not sure which side to use as the top visible part, it will be the terry toweling side. This is 100% pure cotton and it is fully absorbent.
• Avoid bleaching or dry cleaning. Bleaching might destroy the miracle membrane and dry cleaning are using various chemicals that can also easily destroy the membrane.
• For the same reason, avoid ironing it. You can, however, tumble dry it in your clothes dryer at low to medium 65° C/150° F to 70° C/160° F. Make sure you always dry it together with other linen.

Watch this Youtube video to learn more about the AllerZip bed bug mattress encasement.