We wear pajamas only during sleep, but for many hours adheres to our skin, absorbing sweat, dead skin and remains of cosmetics. It is therefore an ideal environment for bacteria They exhibited chill Whether Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which in rare cases can cause irritation, allergies and even skin infections. According to the International Review, “Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene” from 2011, textiles such as underwear or pajamas are a carrier of microorganisms, especially with long -term contact with the body.
On Instagram, on the @Projekt_zakupy profile, there was a graphics suggesting a change of pajamas after 1-2 night. Comments under the post revealed a variety of habits: “I can’t imagine sleeping in the same pajamas twice in a row without washing!” – wrote one of the users. Another noticed: “I exchange pajamas every 1-2 days, but I wash once a week when more washing is collected.” These extreme approaches show that the topic arouses emotions, and our habits do not always harmonize with expert recommendations.
Scientific research shed light on how often we should wash pajamas to maintain hygiene and health. In 1984, scientists from the University of Washington published in Journal of Infectious Diseases A study that showed, that washing at 22 ° C with the appropriate detergent and bleach reduces the number of bacteria up to a thousand times. Another study, conducted in 1987 by the same university and published in Infection Controlconfirmed that washing in 40-48 ° C with a good detergent effectively eliminates most microorganisms.
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The type of pajama material also matters. Study from 2021, published in Microorganisms by scientists from the University College London, showed that synthetic fabrics, i.e. polyester, favors the more intensive development of bacteria, such as micrococks, which lead to the formation of an unpleasant smell. Cotton and linen, thanks to better air permeability, are less susceptible to collecting microorganisms, but they also require regular washing.
The frequency of pajama washing depends on several factors: sweating intensity, use of cosmetics, type of material and individual hygiene needs. Here are practical guidelines based on research and expert recommendations:
- cotton or linen pajamas: At the evening shower and moderate sweating, it is enough to change the pajamas every 2-3 nights. Experts from Real Simple (2020) They recommend replacing every 2-3 days, and with greater sweating – every day.
- Synthetic pajamas: polyester and other synthetics stop moisture and smell, so it’s worth washing them after 1-2 night, as specialists advise with Better Homes and Gardens (2021).
- high sweating or using cosmetics: creams, oils or self -tanning can accelerate bacterial accumulation. In such cases, the pajamas should be washed after each night;
- skin disease or infections: in the case of fever, infections or skin problems, pajamas should be washed every day to prevent microorganisms from spreading;
- nightwear: Like ordinary underwear, it should be changed every day.
Pajamas washing At 40-48 ° C with the right detergent, it effectively eliminates bacteria. When choosing a detergent, it is worth focusing on funds containing enzymes or oxygen bleachwhich intensify the effectiveness of removing microorganisms, ensuring hygienic cleanliness even at lower temperatures. After washing, it is best to dry the pajamas in the sun or in a ventilated place where UV rays support the fight against bacteria and giving fabrics freshness.
In Poland, the approach to washing pajamas is often based on intuition. Many people change them every 7-14 days. Although there is a lack of detailed data on Poles’ habits, analogous studies from Great Britain (Daily Mail2019) suggest that men wear pajamas for two weeks, and women up to 17 days. It is possible that in Poland we are observing similar trends. On the other hand, there are people who exchange pajamas every day, guided by the principle “prevention better than cure”.
