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According to figures from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), one-third of adults in Germany are affected. This presents interior designers with new challenges: they must avoid allergy-triggering materials and select suitable hypoallergenic fabrics.
What are hypoallergenic fabrics?
"Hypoallergenic" refers to materials that reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Allergic reactions occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies harmless substances (antigens) as threats. Common allergens include pollen (e.g., from hazel or birch), mould spores, animal proteins (dust mites, pet hair), and metals.
Hypoallergenic fabrics help reduce or eliminate these antigens. To be suitable for interior spaces, they must meet specific criteria.
Key characteristics of hypoallergenic fabrics
Selecting allergy-friendly fabrics requires expertise. On the one hand, textiles must be chosen that actively reduce or eliminate antigens. On the other hand, materials should be produced using optimised manufacturing processes with low levels of harmful substances to minimise the risk of allergies. Both factors determine the suitability of fabrics for allergy-prone individuals in interior design.
Chemical management and quality control
Studies show links between harmful substances and increasing allergy rates. Even natural fibres can be contaminated during cultivation. Additionally, the textile industry uses chemicals such as formaldehyde, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and dyes, which may trigger allergies.
Regulations set limits on these substances. For example, under the REACH regulation, textiles may contain a maximum of 0.080 mg/m³ formaldehyde from 2026. Certifications like Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 or GOTS impose even stricter limits (GOTS < 16 mg/kg).
Interior designers who offer hypoallergenic materials must implement comprehensive chemical management. Many companies within the Texpertise Network are optimising their production chains accordingly.
Breathable and antimicrobial materials
Hypoallergenic fabrics exhibit additional properties:
- Antimicrobial effects: Some natural fibres, such as bamboo, inhibit microbial growth, reducing allergy risks. Certain synthetic textiles can also incorporate silver or copper additives for antimicrobial properties.
- Dust and dirt resistance: Pollen, pet hair, and dust easily settle in textiles. Antistatic fibres or special coatings prevent this and reduce allergen accumulation.
- Breathability: Good moisture regulation prevents the growth of mould and microorganisms.
Research into antimicrobial properties is ongoing. Interior designers are already utilizing nanosilver coatings to actively combat microorganisms.
The use of hypoallergenic fabrics in interior design
The use of hypoallergenic fabrics provides clear benefits for interior designers. With allergy cases increasing, many customers are willing to pay more for health-conscious materials.
Future regulatory changes concerning chemical limits and harmful substances could also make conventional materials less viable. Businesses that adopt hypoallergenic alternatives early on secure a strong market position.
Conclusion: hypoallergenic fabrics for the well-being of customers
For a long time, allergies played a minor role in interior design. However, as the number of affected individuals grows, so does the demand for allergy-friendly materials. Interior designers should incorporate hypoallergenic fabrics into their offerings to create healthy living spaces for their clients. In addition to natural fibres, innovative coatings and material blends help minimise allergens.
FAQ – frequently asked questions
Which fabrics are hypoallergenic?
Some natural fibres, such as bamboo, have inherent antimicrobial properties. Breathable and antistatic fabrics also help reduce allergens. Additional hypoallergenic properties can be achieved through material blends or coatings.
Who benefits from hypoallergenic textiles?
Anyone prone to allergies. These fabrics reduce exposure to harmful substances, microorganisms, and dirt accumulation, minimising allergic reactions. At the same time, they offer businesses a competitive advantage.
Are hypoallergenic textiles expensive?
Natural fibre fabrics with hypoallergenic properties are often similarly priced to standard materials. For synthetic alternatives, costs depend on manufacturing processes, such as silver thread incorporation or special coatings.
