Have you ever come home after a long day and plopped down on your bed without changing clothes? While it might seem harmless, this seemingly innocent act could be spreading contagious bacteria to your sleeping environment. Sleep experts at MattressNextDay are urging everyone to ditch the comfort zone until they’ve donned clean clothes.
After a long day, all you want to do is sink into your bed for some well-deserved rest, but this could actually be doing more harm than good. Certain bacteria can cling to your outdoor clothes and transfer to your bed, making a change into clean clothing essential before settling down.
Jeans, in particular, are notorious offenders, often worn multiple times before being washed. Studies have shown that two contagious bacteria, Escherichia coli (E. Coli) and Staphylococcus aureus, can survive on mattresses. E. Coli, a bacteria known to cause diarrhoea, food poisoning, and even pneumonia, can persist on surfaces for months. The older your mattress, the more likely it is to harbor these bacteria.
Staphylococcus aureus, another culprit, can lead to skin infections, acne, and, in severe cases, pneumonia. Research has revealed its presence on cot mattresses and pillowcases, highlighting the importance of regular cleaning.
Martin Seeley, sleep expert and CEO of MattressNextDay, recommends these simple yet effective tips:
* Change into clean clothing before sitting on your bed.
* Avoid placing items that have been outside, such as bags, coats, or shoes, on your bed.
* Store clothes that have been worn outside and will be worn again, like jeans and jackets, separately from clean clothing. Use a different drawer or cupboard to prevent contamination.
By following these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and your family from the potential spread of harmful bacteria and ensure a cleaner, healthier sleeping environment.
