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- Easy change to laundry will ensure dust mites are gone for good (irishstar.com)
The Great Sheet Debate: Experts Weigh In on Weekly Washes and Mighty Mite Mayhem
For years, the question of how often to wash bed sheets and at what temperature has lingered in the air, much like, well, dust. But now, experts have offered a definitive answer, suggesting a weekly cleanse for optimal bedroom hygiene.
Specialists from Pizua Linens have shed light on some rather unsettling bedroom residents that could be impacting your precious sleep. “Dust mites reproduce exceptionally fast and take up residence in places such as mattresses, bedding, and headboards,” they reveal.
These tiny, eight-legged creatures, barely visible to the naked eye, thrive in warm, humid environments, especially as the weather cools and we retreat indoors. Their preferred diet?
Human hair and animal skin cells – making your cozy bed their five-star buffet. They’ll happily cohabitate with you for 20 to 70 days, no matter where you call home.
But fear not, there’s a surprisingly simple solution to evict these unwelcome guests from your linens, and it doesn’t involve harsh chemicals.
Pizua Linens recommends a 60-degree wash cycle for all bedding, including pillowcases. “This temperature is correct for killing dust mites, bacteria and allergens,” they state, a recommendation echoed by the NHS. While the NHS notes that lower temperatures will temporarily wash away allergens as mites dissolve in water, the mites themselves will survive and continue to produce more allergens over time.
Beyond the wash cycle, proper drying is crucial. Dust mites flourish in warm, humid conditions, so ensure your bedding is thoroughly dry before storing it or putting it back on the bed. Damp sheets can create a breeding ground for mold and, you guessed it, more dust mites.
However, Clare, a linen expert from Belle Dorm, offers an even simpler, low-tech method to keep these microscopic invaders at bay: simply open a window.
“Once in a while, air your bedroom by leaving the windows open and pulling your sheets back, which will help fight germs, bed bugs and dust mites,” Clare advises. This allows moisture to evaporate from your bedding, rather than soaking in, promoting a more hygienic sleep environment.
Even a quick 10-minute window opening in the morning, followed by pulling back your comforter and blankets to the foot of the bed, can make a significant difference. This straightforward action is one of the most effective ways to keep your bed dry, deterring any unwanted germs or dust mites from making themselves at home on your sheets. So, go ahead, let some fresh air in and give those mites the cold shoulder!
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- Easy change to laundry will ensure dust mites are gone for good (irishstar.com)