By IANSlife
November 03, 2023 (IANSlife) In any conversation around a healthy sleeping environment we often think of radiation, constant connectivity and so much more, but have we ever wondered – how clean is our bed which plays a pivotal role in forming that conducive sleep environment?
Joanne Kang, Lead Research Scientist in Microbiology at Dyson sheds light on that overlooked danger lurking beneath the surface which can impact your sleep and overall wellbeing and shares some tips to achieve a cleaner bedroom environment.
What is the problem?
While your mattress may appear clean, it could be a hotbed of microscopic life. Household dust, containing dust mites, bacteria, viruses, pollen, and other allergens, makes up the complex matrix that exists in your mattress, highlighting significant cleanliness concerns. This extends to linens and pillowcases, which can also house harmful microorganisms within their fabric, creating an environment conducive to the thriving presence of undesirable particles.
A report by Amerisleep has uncovered the startling truth about the unassuming pillowcase we trust for a good night's sleep. Within just one week, an unwashed pillowcase can accumulate an astounding 3 million bacteria, making it approximately 17,000 times more contaminated than the average toilet seat. Moreover, the Dyson Global Dust Study 2023 reveals that 60% of Indians think toilets harbour the most viruses and just 2 in 5 Indians clean their mattress regularly.
A single mattress can harbour millions of dust mites, and a single dust mite, on average, produces about 20 faecal droppings a day. While dust mites themselves do not trigger allergies, the allergens and proteins in their faecal droppings can trigger allergies.
Solution: Here’s what can be done
To maintain a truly cleaner and more hygienic sleeping environment, it is important that we prioritise consistent cleaning and vacuuming to remove as much dust and allergens from the bedroom. Here are four easy steps:
Incorporating proper mattress hygiene practices, such as regular vacuuming and laundering of bedding, can significantly reduce the presence of dust mites and allergens. By taking these simple steps, you can create a more hygienic and comfortable sleeping space for a restful night's sleep.
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