Health Risks of Making Your Bed Right After Waking Up, Warns California Doctor

Post by : Saif Nasser

While some think making the bed immediately after waking is a sign of tidiness, Dr. Myroslav Figura from Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Centre suggests otherwise. He believes this common practice could adversely affect your health. Instead, Dr. Figura recommends leaving your bed unmade for a little while after you wake up.

In a recent viral clip, he elaborated on the issue, stating that beds are often home to dust mites—tiny insects that thrive in the moisture from sweat and dead skin cells left on sheets. When you make your bed right after waking, you effectively trap this moisture within the bedding, creating an ideal breeding environment for these pests.

Dr. Figura stated, “Stop. Do not make your bed in the morning. Your health is at stake.” He noted that regardless of whether you sleep solo or with a partner, your bed is teeming with dust mites. He observed that if you have an older pillow, approximately 10% of its weight consists of dust mites and their droppings. These microscopic beings can be detrimental to health, as they produce allergens that trigger asthma and respiratory issues.

To minimize dust mite populations, the doctor suggests letting the bed “breathe.” Allowing for one to two hours of air exposure after waking enables sweat and moisture to evaporate naturally. This drying process makes the environment less hospitable for dust mites. “When you sleep, you sweat. Making the bed right away traps that moisture which lets dust mites thrive. If you leave it unmade for a while, that moisture dissipates and their numbers decrease,” he explained.

Moreover, Dr. Figura emphasized the importance of regularly washing bed linens. He recommends a cleaning routine of at least bi-weekly, or weekly if feasible, to eliminate dust, dead skin, and allergens that accumulate over time. “Fresh linens mean fewer mites, leading to a healthier sleep environment,” he affirmed.

In a light-hearted moment, he reassured listeners that not making the bed immediately is not a sign of laziness, but rather a sanitary choice. His advice has sparked considerable interest online, with many people expressing surprise and relief at the validation of their own preferences for delaying bed-making. Others, however, find it hard to believe that such a seemingly innocent habit could be detrimental.

Dust mites are a typical presence in all households, regardless of cleanliness. They are microscopic and can trigger health issues in those with allergies or asthma. Their fecal particles can lead to sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and breathing difficulties. Experts advocate that maintaining a dry and clean bedding environment is a key method to minimize these pests.

Dr. Figura’s recommendation may be unconventional, but there's scientific backing. Research indicates that dust mites prosper in humid conditions. By allowing air and sunlight to reach your bed, you can create a less favorable environment for their survival. This simple adjustment could lead to a healthier bedroom and a more restful sleep.

In summary, Dr. Figura’s straightforward advice is to take a moment before making your bed. Open the windows, let in fresh air, and enable your sheets to dry. While it may defy conventional wisdom, skipping that quick morning chore could genuinely benefit your health.