Did you know that we sleep for 26 years in our lifetime on average? That is about 3,000 hours in bed each year! But, the truth is that there is nothing quite like that feeling of looking forward to crawling into your comfortable bed after a long and exhausting day.
The only thing that can spoil our joy is thinking about germs. Those little menaces always lurk around and inhabit every inch of our bed sheets, which is why it is crucial to maintain a germ-free sleeping area and freshly cleaned bedding sets. In fact, you should wash your sheets twice a day, because even though some germs naturally occur, some people also contaminate the bed by eating there.
Actually, according to a new study, our sheets may be dirtier than we think, because there are a lot of contaminating agents that don’t even cross our mind. And, contrary to popular belief, this, as well as the material of the sheets, might disturb our good night’s sleep. So let’s take a look at the list of truths about bedding that will surprise you.
The Threats Hiding in Your Sheets
It is commonly known that our skin sheds, but to what extent really? Out of billions of skin cells, our skin sheds between 30,000 and 40,000 of them every hour, leading to about a million skin cells being shed daily. These dead cells are the most desirable treat for dust mites, microscopic bugs that can negatively affect our immune system.
Moving on to food crumbs which attract bugs, pet hair which provokes coughing and allergies, as well as our naturally produced sweat that stays on the sheets, inviting fungus. Also, anything from saliva to other bodily fluids can easily be present on the bed. No sweet dreams tonight, right?
There are Better Materials out There
Regarding nightly sweat, synthetic materials have a tendency to retain the heat and make sleeping uncomfortable. On the other hand, cotton is a more pleasant natural material that increases the quality of sleep. Next time you’re on a bed sheet shopping spree, look for Egyptian cotton, as it is the best material to use.
Detergent Might Not Do You Good
Harsh detergents can seriously damage the sheets. Furthermore, those with sensitive skin can additionally worsen their skin condition by using such products. In addition, sheet fibers might not have been grown organically, thus, by combining fragranced and toxic detergents with poor quality sheets, you expose your skin to greater danger.
Bedding Sets Have An Expiration Date
Although the thought might not have crossed your mind, sheets do have an expiration date. Just like most clothes, sheets go through repeated washing and exposure to hot water shortens their lifespan. Therefore, it is best to buy new sheets every 18 to 24 months.
Don’t Lay in Unwashed Sheets
Once you acquire a new bedding set, make sure to wash it before use. And, if possible, wash it a few times to get rid of the irritants already occupying your new sheets. Things can often get contaminated with germs during packing, and washing the sheets twice before using them will ensure that you have comfortable and germ-free nights.
Sheets Can Get You Sick
Do you know what can happen when you forget to wash the sheets? Basically, when you neglect your bedding set, all of the pollutants mentioned above can accumulate, and reach a potentially harmful amount. If you are feeling sick already, the sheet may be the problem. Though you can’t see the mites and spores, they can still attack your body.
Bacteria and Fungal Infections
Regularly inhaling spores can cause pneumonia and asthma. However, the worst part is that you can develop crumbling toenails and skin lesions due to a fungal infection caused by bed moisture that accumulates as you sweat. Have you ever woken up with a runny nose? Maybe it is time to reconsider your bed sheet habits.
Thread Count Myths
The general opinion is that a 1000-1500 thread count means luxury and that it is a higher quality option than sheets with a smaller thread number. Sorry to burst your bubble, but if the thread count surpasses 500, then you are looking at two textiles woven together.
Viruses are Also a Threat
The human body is full of bad and good bacteria, so it is no wonder that our sweat contains traces of E.coli. Add the cosmetics that rub off on our sheets to the equation and you get the perfect recipe for skin breakouts and infections. Moreover, the more time passes between sheet washing, the harder it gets to remove skin cells, mites, and other nasties from your bed sheets.
Pet Diseases
All of us love our furry little friends so much that we let them sleep by our side in bed. Nonetheless, this can lead to numerous animal diseases such as fleas, worms, etc. No matter how much it hurts, maybe it is best to teach them not to climb onto the bed. But don’t worry, they can still sleep on the floor next to you.
A Wide Range of Bedding Sets
At the end of the day, all that matters is that you sleep safe and sound. To do so, you need to learn all you can about different sheet options. First of all, are you looking for fitted of flat type sheets? Fitted sheets are those with elastic sewn corners for a better bed fitting, while the flat version lack this feature.
Still, when it comes to their material range, the choice is between:
- Cotton Sheets – Although we have already mentioned that they are the preferred option, there are many different types to choose from, depending on cotton quality. The best, of course, are the Egyptian cotton sheets.
- Flannel sheets – For the cold, wintery nights, flannel provides the best support. Warm and fluffy, but so breathable.
- Satin Sheets – Silky and provocative sheets for adventurers. They breathe well and their lightness is great for hot summer days.
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Conclusion
All in all, the choice is yours when it comes to bed sheets. However, be sure to wash them once every 7 to 10 days or you will put your health at risk. With so many invisible dangers lurking between the bedding set preventing a healthy dose of sleep, you might want to consider a shopping for a new pair of sheets that will keep you safe and allow you to relax.
