Introduction
We all know that a clean and tidy bedroom is important for a good night’s sleep, but did you know that it can also be a major factor in your overall health? According to experts, if you’re not regularly cleaning your bedroom, you could be putting yourself at risk for a variety of illnesses. From dust mites to mold, there are a number of potential health hazards lurking in your bedroom that can make you sick if you’re not careful. In this article, we’ll discuss the potential health risks associated with an unclean bedroom and provide some tips on how to keep your bedroom clean and healthy. So, if you want to stay healthy and safe, read on to find out how to keep your bedroom clean and healthy.
Your Bedroom Can Make You Sick If You’re Not Cleaning This, Say Experts
It’s no secret that a clean bedroom is essential for a good night’s sleep. But did you know that it can also help keep you healthy? According to experts, not cleaning certain areas of your bedroom can lead to an increased risk of getting sick.
Dr. Robert Glatter, an emergency physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, says that the most important area to clean in your bedroom is your mattress. “Dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens can accumulate in your mattress over time, leading to an increased risk of respiratory infections and other illnesses,” he explains. “It’s important to vacuum your mattress regularly and use a mattress protector to keep it clean.”
In addition to your mattress, Glatter recommends cleaning your bedding, curtains, and carpets regularly. “These items can also accumulate dust and other allergens, so it’s important to wash them in hot water and use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or debris,” he says.
Finally, Glatter suggests cleaning your bedroom walls and floors. “Dust and dirt can accumulate on these surfaces, so it’s important to use a damp cloth to wipe them down,” he says. “This will help reduce the risk of getting sick from allergens and other contaminants.”
By taking the time to clean your bedroom regularly, you can help reduce your risk of getting sick. So don’t forget to vacuum your mattress, wash your bedding, and wipe down your walls and floors to keep your bedroom clean and healthy.
On average, Americans spend half our lives in our bedrooms. So it’s important to make the most of it. A dirty bedroom can compromise your health, triggering allergy and asthma symptoms and preventing a good night’s sleep, which is crucial to overall health and lowering your risk of chronic diseases ranging from heart disease to cancer. So Eat This, Not That! Health consulted the experts on how—and how often—you should clean your bedroom to make it the healthy haven you deserve. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
Your enemy #1 is dust mites. These microscopic creatures feast on human skin flakes, and their favorite residence is in the fabrics and soft surfaces of the bedroom. Dust mites (specifically, their waste) can cause allergic reactions like sneezing, coughing and itching. Start by dusting the ceiling fan, and use an electrostatic duster to remove dust from trim and shelves, working your way down to lower surfaces. Read on for more essential dust-removal tips.
The American Academy of Asthma, Allergies and Immunology recommends vacuuming weekly with a vacuum that has a HEPA or small-particle filter. A HEPA filter is better, as it will trap any dust that traditional vacuums expel in exhaust.
Mop hard-surface floors once a week, the AAAAI recommends.
The AAAAI recommends washing sheets, pillowcases and blankets weekly.
Bedding should be washed in 130-degree F water, the AAAAI says. That’s the standard hot setting on most washing machines.
Curtains should be washed or dry-cleaned seasonally, the AAAAI recommends.
RELATED: If You Feel This, You May Have COVID Now
They’re not something we’re eager to think about, but cockroaches are omnipresent, and their droppings can aggravate allergies and asthma and spread disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these are the best strategies to keep the bugs out: Seal cracks and openings to the outside; cover trash cans; don’t leave food lying around; and wipe up any spills quickly. If you spot cockroaches, use baited traps or hire a professional exterminator. Never use foggers or bug bombs, the CDC says.
RELATED: Over 60? Stop Doing This ASAP, Say Experts
Bedrooms are hotspots for mold growth, the CDC says. To prevent it, keep humidity levels as low as possible, no higher than 50%. To clean any mold from windowsills, use a chlorine bleach solution (3/4 cup chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water) and be sure to wear a protective mask, the AAAAI says.
You should switch out the filters in central air conditioning and heating systems, and in-room air conditioners, once a month, the AAAAI says.
RELATED: This Surprising Habit Can Stave Off Dementia, Says Study
If someone has been sick, the CDC recommends cleaning all surfaces that may have germs on them, including doorknobs, bedside tables, counters and phone. Wash bed sheets with laundry soap and tumble dry on a hot dryer setting. It’s a good idea to wipe down switch plates and doorknobs regularly, even when everyone’s healthy.
RELATED: Sleeping This Way Can Lead to Depression, Study Shows
While you’re at it, clean up the primary source of germs in your bedroom: Your cellphone. Rest it in a UV sanitizing device daily, or wipe it down with sanitizing wipes or a disinfectant solution. And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.