Since we were little, our parents told us to make our bed every morning. It’s a great habit, right?
It starts the day with a clear discipline. You finish a task quickly, which sets you up for completing other tasks. And it gives you a small sense of pride.
But making your bed first thing in the morning has a downside. It can cause allergies and ruin your sleep!
During the night, your body releases moisture. The moisture comes out in your breath when you exhale and from your skin when you perspire. This leaves your sheets slightly moist.
This moisture creates a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and dust mites.
In fact, one study found that up to half the weight of a down comforter can be dust mites and their droppings.
Several studies have proven that dust mites cause allergies and sinus problems.
Still another study found that dust mites are a primary cause of sleep loss because they worsen coughing, sneezing, and other allergy symptoms.
Nasty stuff!
Fortunately, the solution is quite simple.
Just let your bed air out for about an hour before you make it. Do everything else in your morning routine and then make your bed last.
You’ll get all the benefits of a made bed – and none of the health problems.