The habit of making the bed is a long-held tradition, often associated with discipline and a neat environment. This simple morning ritual has recently been questioned by modern health claims suggesting it may not be beneficial for everyone. Pulling the covers up immediately could inadvertently create a thriving environment for microscopic organisms, potentially impacting respiratory health. This article explores the scientific claims against making the bed and contrasts them with the psychological benefits of a tidy space.
The Dust Mite Argument
The argument against making the bed centers on the biology of house dust mites, primarily Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae. These microscopic arachnids are a common source of allergens and flourish in warm, humid environments, relying on moisture in the air to survive. Humans introduce significant moisture into their beds nightly through perspiration and breath.
A person can lose up to a liter of fluid per night through sweating, which is absorbed by the bedding. When the bed is made immediately, this moisture is trapped beneath the covers, creating a pocket of high relative humidity and warmth. This microclimate is perfect for dust mites, which thrive when ambient humidity is above 50 to 55%.
Dust mites must absorb water from the surrounding air, making low humidity a natural enemy. Leaving the covers thrown back allows the moisture to evaporate much faster, drying out the sheets and mattress. This rapid desiccation creates unfavorable conditions that dehydrate and ultimately kill the mites. This effectively slows the growth of their population and reduces the concentration of allergenic fecal matter.
The Psychological Impact of a Tidy Space
Countering the biological argument is the significant mental benefit many people derive from a made bed. Completing this small task first thing in the morning establishes a sense of order and control over the immediate environment. This simple act sets a positive tone for the day, fostering an immediate sense of accomplishment.
Psychologists refer to this kind of small, impactful action as a “keystone habit.” Mastering one positive behavior can create a ripple effect, encouraging the development of other positive habits, such as better organization or improved discipline. A tidy bedroom also reduces visual clutter, which can minimize low-level anxiety and stress.
Coming home to a neatly made bed serves as a non-verbal cue that the day’s work is done and it is time to relax. This visual distinction reinforces the bedroom as a sanctuary dedicated to rest. The structure provided by this routine can activate the brain’s executive functions, promoting clarity and a focused mindset.
Strategies for Better Bed Hygiene
To reconcile the dust mite concern with the psychological benefits of a tidy space, a few practical adjustments can be implemented. The most effective compromise is to delay making the bed for a period after waking up. Throwing the duvet or comforter completely off the mattress for 30 to 60 minutes allows the accumulated moisture from the night to quickly dissipate.
Maintaining a low relative humidity in the bedroom is an effective control measure, with experts suggesting a range of 30% to 50% to discourage mite proliferation. Proper ventilation is also helpful; opening a window for a short time each morning introduces fresh air and lowers the room’s overall humidity level.
The most direct way to remove mites and allergens is through frequent laundering of bedding. Sheets, pillowcases, and blankets should be washed weekly in hot water, with temperatures reaching at least 130°F (54.4°C) to ensure the mites are killed. For those with significant allergies, encasing mattresses and pillows in zippered, allergen-proof covers provides a barrier that prevents mites from colonizing the deepest layers of the bedding.