Why You Should Think Twice Before Making Your Bed: A Doctor's Insight

While many see making their bed as a hallmark of discipline and cleanliness, a California physician believes this act might actually compromise your well-being. Dr. Myroslav Figura, an anesthesiologist affiliated with Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Centre and UCLA Santa Monica Medical Centre, suggests that leaving your bed unmade for a short while is advisable.

In a widely shared Instagram video, Dr. Figura elucidates that beds serve as habitats for countless dust mites—tiny organisms that thrive on moisture from perspiration and dead skin shed during sleep. When you make your bed right after awakening, you inadvertently trap this moisture within the sheets and mattress, creating an ideal setting for dust mite proliferation.

Dr. Figura firmly stated, “Hold on. Do not make your bed in the morning. Your health relies on this decision.” He emphasized that regardless of whether someone sleeps solo or with a partner, an astounding number of dust mites populate their bedding. “If you possess a two-year-old pillow, around 10 percent of its weight is attributable to dust mites and their excretions,” he cautioned. These minuscule creatures can exacerbate health issues by producing allergens, potentially leading to asthma attacks, sneezing, and nasal congestion.

The physician advised that the optimal way to limit dust mite growth is to allow your bed to “breathe.” By not making your bed for one or two hours after waking, you facilitate the natural evaporation of moisture and sweat. This drying process results in an environment that is less conducive to dust mites. “Your body sweats while you sleep. If you cover your bed immediately, the moisture stays trapped, allowing dust mites to flourish. However, permitting the bed to remain unmade for a while causes the moisture to evaporate, ultimately decreasing their population,” he clarified.

Dr. Figura also underscored the importance of regularly washing bed linens. He recommends a cleaning routine of at least once every two weeks or weekly for optimal hygiene. This not only prevents dust accumulation but also helps in removing any dead skin and allergens. “Clean bedding means fewer dust mites and a healthier environment for sleep,” he asserted.

With a touch of humor, he remarked that there should be no guilt over delaying bed-making, quipping, “It’s not being lazy; it’s about maintaining hygiene.” His advice has sparked discussions online, with many expressing surprise while some acknowledged they already preferred to wait before making their beds, feeling validated by his insights. Others, however, remained skeptical, insisting that they had always viewed early bed-making as a beneficial practice.

Dust mites are ubiquitous in all homes, irrespective of cleanliness levels. Though invisible, their waste poses challenges for allergy sufferers and can exacerbate asthma. To minimize dust mite presence, experts recommend ensuring bedding remains dry and clean.

While Dr. Figura’s counsel may appear unconventional, it is anchored in scientific reasoning. Research indicates that dust mites flourish in humid settings. Allowing air and sunlight to reach your bedding hampers their survival, paving the way for a healthier sleeping space.

In summary, the physician's guidance is clear: delay making your bed. Open windows, promote air circulation, and enable your sheets to dry. Although this may contradict ingrained habits, skipping this quick morning chore could be the most beneficial choice for your health.