For many, making their bed every morning is an ingrained habit – a symbol of discipline and order in an unpredictable world. However, a recent study suggests that leaving your bed unmade during the day may actually reduce dust mites living in your bedding. These microscopic organisms thrive on moisture and warmth, but when the bed is left open and exposed to air, conditions change. This can disrupt their habitat, making it harder for them to survive.
Dust mites are a common source of indoor allergens worldwide, and their waste particles can trigger severe reactions. By leaving your bed unmade during the day, you may be reducing allergy triggers in your home. A made bed, on the other hand, can trap moisture and warmth, creating an ideal environment for dust mites to thrive.
The problem is not just about cleanliness; it’s also about indoor air quality. Heating systems dry out the ambient air, making cold winter months particularly problematic. Health agencies recommend reducing indoor humidity and increasing airflow to control allergen levels. By adjusting your bed-making routine, you can make a meaningful contribution to improving bedroom air quality.
For households with children, seniors, or anyone with allergic asthma, reconsidering how—and when—you make the bed could be a low-cost way to improve their health. Airing out your bedding for several hours before making it up can help promote evaporation and reduce dust mite populations. This change is especially relevant for allergy sufferers, who may experience symptoms after prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated bedrooms.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/12/daily-bed-making-habit-linked-to-allergies-and-asthma