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Most of us might complain about the tedious chore of laundry, particularly when it comes to bedding. The process of stripping the bed, ensuring multiple wash cycles due to the bulk, and then the dreaded task of making the bed again, especially if you have a duvet, can be quite off-putting. Indeed, these might sound like trivial concerns.
Yet, the laziness many of us display in frequently washing our bedding may have repercussions we'd never even considered. According to laundry expert Mary Marlowe Leverette, while we rest, our bodies do not. We release body oils, sweat, and more. Shockingly, upon close examination, one might find traces of saliva, urine, and even fecal matter in the bedding. Any cuts or abrasions can potentially become infected if one's bedding is dirty. Moreover, fungal infections like Athlete's foot can also transfer via fabric. It's concerning to think that neglecting bed linen cleaning might lead to these residues seeping into pillows and mattresses, which are notably harder to clean.
But, brace yourself, as there's more discomforting news. Humans shed skin flakes daily, including during sleep. These skin flakes can attract dust mites, which not only inhabit your sheets but also leave behind their excrement. This unsavory detail, apart from its obvious revulsion, can be particularly problematic for those with allergies or asthma.
This mite excrement, besides worsening respiratory issues, can be eliminated by hot water washing, according to Leverette. Avoiding regular washing can cause the body fluids to be deeply embedded in the fibers, making them harder to clean. If you've ever noticed a stale, rancid odor from sheets in your linen closet, it's likely due to remnants of body fluids left in the fibers from inadequate cleaning.
To mitigate these health hazards and to maintain a clean sleeping environment, Leverette suggests washing your bedding weekly using the hottest water setting. The frequency should be increased if someone is unwell or sweats excessively. After diving into these details, one might feel a renewed motivation to maintain a regular bedding washing schedule.
