Image via: Shutterstock
From an early age most of us are taught to make the bed after we wake up and before we begin our day. The practice helps parents to establish routine and responsibility in young children and it’s often something that sticks with people all throughout their lives. Plus, for some people making the bed makes it less likely that they will crawl back into it, and it tidies up the entire room instantly. However, scientists are now saying that this age old practice is not only unnecessary, but it could also be making us a lot less healthy.
It all comes down to the millions of unseen dust mites that live in our beds. The bizarre, alien looking critters feed on the dead skin flakes that fall off our bodies and into our beds. This makes mattresses, blankets, sheets, pillows, and whatever else you have on your bed the perfect breeding ground for the microscopic creatures. Since people sleep for long hours in bed, their bedding takes up moisture from the prolonged body contact, and that also allows the dust mites to survive and reproduce.
Now scientists are recommending an easy and effective way to cut down on the number of dust mites in your bed, simply leave it unmade. Dr. Stephen Pretlove spoke to the BBC and explained that “We know that mites can only survive by taking in water from the atmosphere using small glands on the outside of their body. Something as simple as leaving a bed unmade during the day can remove moisture from the sheets and mattress so the mites will dehydrate and eventually die.” In turn, less dust mites can lead to better health since they often cause the asthma and allergies which many people suffer from. Plus, who wants to share their bed, a place of coziness and warmth, with millions of freaky little bugs?
The next time you wake up, skip making the bed and save yourself an extra minute or two. There is nothing to lose and potentially lots to gain by doing so, because you can only end up healthier, and thus happier. Please share this information with others so they can lean about the science and benefits of an unmade bed!
Please Share This Information With Family and Friends
