The hygiene of the space where we sleep is critical to the quality of our sleep and to avoid health problems such as allergies or infections.
Most of us spend about One third of life in bed. Sleeping is not just a moment of inactivity; It is essential for the normal functioning of the brain and health in general. And while we focus many times in how many hours we sleep, the quality of our sleep environment also matters. A clean and cozy bed with impeccable sheets, soft pillows and clean blankets, not only provides a pleasant feeling, but also provides better rest.
But how often should we really wash the bedding?
According to a 2022 YouGov survey, Only 28% of British They wash the sheets once a week. A surprising number admitted to leave the bedding much longer, with some to reach eight weeks or more between washes. So what is the scientific -based orientation?
Let’s look at what really happens in your bed every night – and why washing regularly is more than just a cleaning.
Every night, as we sleep, we eliminate hundreds of thousands of skin cells, excrete sebaceous glands and sweat even half a liter of liquid – even if we have bathed just before bed. Our skin houses Millions of bacteria and fungimany of which are transferred to sheets, pillows and duvet as we move at night.
This fresh sweat may be odorless, but the bacteria of our skin, especially staphylococci, decompose it into smelly by-products. That’s why we often wake up with body odor, even if we went to sleep clean.
But it is not just microbes. During the day, our hair and bodies accumulate pollutants, powder, pollen and allergenwhich can also be transferred to bedding. These can trigger allergies, affect breathing and contribute to poor air quality in the room.
Mites, fungi and other invisible bed companions
The skin flakes we exchanged every night turn into food for mites-microscopic creatures that thrive on bedding and hot and humid mattresses. The mites themselves are not dangerous, but their stools are powerful allergens that can aggravate eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis.
The fungi also find your bed attractive. Some species, such as the Aspergillus fumigatuswere detected in used pillows and can cause Severe pulmonary infectionsespecially in people with the weakened immune system.
If you sleep with pets, the microbial party gets even more excited. Animals introduce hair, dandruff, dirt and sometimes fecal traces Extra in your sheets and blankets, increasing the frequency with which you should wash them.
So how often should your bedding should wash?
Sheets and pillowcases
- When: Weeklyor every three or four days if you are sick, sweat a lot or share your bed with pets.
- Why: To remove sweat, oiliness, microbes, allergen and dead skin cells.
- As: Wash at 60 ° C or more with detergent to kill bacteria and mites. For deeper hygiene, dry on the drying machine or iron. To eliminate mites inside the pillows, freeze for at least 8 hours.
Mattresses
- When: Aspire at least once a week and airy the mattress every few days.
- Why: Sweat increases moisture levels, creating a conducive environment for mites.
- Tips: Use a plastic or allergen -proof mattress protector and Change the mattress every seven years to maintain hygiene and support.
Inland of the pillows
- When: each four to six months (Check the label first).
- Why: Inner filling can house bacteria and mold.
- Like: Wash well and dry completely to avoid the growth of fungi.
BIGGERS AND COVERS OF MUST
- When: Every two weeksor more often if pets sleep on them.
- Why: Skin, sweat and allergen cells retain.
- How: Wash at 60 ° C or at the maximum allowed temperature on the care label. Some guidelines recommend treating them as towels: regular and hot washes keep them hygienic.
Comforters
- When: Every three or four monthsdepending on the use and whether pets or children share the bed.
- Why: Even with a cover, body oils and mites end up infiltrating the filling.
- How: Check the label: Many comforters can be washed on the machine, others may require professional cleaning.
Your bed may seem clean, but It is full of microbes, allergen, mites and irritants that accumulate quickly. Wash your bedding is not just about keeping it fresh; It is a matter of health.
To wash regularly removes biological soup from sweat, skin, powder and microbes, which helps reduce allergic reactions, prevent infections and keep odors under control. And how the investigation continues to show the deep effect of sleep on everythingFrom heart health to mental clarity, a hygienic sleep environment is a small but powerful investment for its well-being.
So go ahead – take off your clothes. Wash the sheets. Freeze your pillows. Your microbes (and your nasal breasts) will thank you.
Good dreams – and good washes.
