“Make your bed.” I heard this so many times growing up. I’m sure you heard it too. I hated making my bed as a kid and still do. Are you still in the habit of doing it now as an adult? Many people are but, I have news for you: Making your bed could be making you sick.
The Theory
While we sleep we are sweating and dead skin cells are falling onto our sheets. Dust mites feed off of the skin cells and love the damp dark area that our blankets provide. Making the bed as soon as you get up traps the dampness and skin cells and makes the perfect environment for dust mites to thrive.
What are Dust Mites?
Dust mites are a group of household mites found in dusty and dark areas of the home. They feed on our dead skin cells and sweat while we sleep. Dust mites thrive in dark areas without fresh air.
Who is Liable to Get Sick From Dust Mites?
Those people who suffer with allergies and asthma are the most likely group of people to see symptoms from dust mites. Those who do not suffer from asthma or allergies could still see minor symptoms upon waking up but, they will most likely fade during the day.
Why Not Making the Bed Helps
When you leave the covers open on your bed, the dust mites are then exposed to light and fresh air. Exposing them to these elements will help to dehydrate them so they die.
I Prefer the Looks of a Made Bed
Having your bed made really makes the room look more put together. I do agree with that. Thankfully, you don’t need to leave your bed unmade all day.
How Long Do I need to Leave it?
Leaving your bed unmade until after you have eaten breakfast and are ready for the day is a good start. This gives the dust mites some time to be exposed to the elements but, it works best if you leave it until you get home in the afternoon.
Other Ways to Minimize Dust Mites
Washing your sheets, blankets and pillow cases every week will help. If every week isn’t possible every two weeks is about as far apart as you want to space it. When washing these items make sure to wash them on hot. If using hot water to wash your bedding isn’t an option, you can also run them through the medium-high option on your dryer for a minimum of 15 minutes.
Mattress and pillow protectors will also help to minimize the number of dust mites in your bed. These should be washed frequently as well.
Wash your pillows. If you are using pillow protectors you pillows only need to be washed every six months. If you aren’t using pillow protectors then your pillows should be washed closer to every three months.
Cleaning your mattress will help a great deal as well. It is recommended that this is done every six months but, it wouldn’t hurt to do it seasonally either.
