"Invisible" danger in bedding! Do not wash below this temperature

Dr. Lecturer Pervin Avcı, whose views were included in the hospital's statement, emphasized the importance of bed, sheet, and pillowcase hygiene for a better quality sleep.

Avcı explained that skin is home to millions of bacteria and fungi, many of which are transferred to sheets, pillows, and comforters when we move throughout the night . "Every night while we sleep, we shed hundreds of thousands of skin cells, secrete oils from our sebaceous glands, and sweat up to half a pint of fluid," he said. "Throughout the day, our hair and bodies collect pollutants, dust, pollen, and allergens, and transfer them to our bedding. The flakes of skin shed from our bodies at night can become food for dust mites. "

Avcı emphasized that bacteria and fungi that thrive in warm, moist bedding invite various health problems, saying, "The droppings of microscopic creatures can worsen eczema, asthma, and allergic rhinitis. Some types of fungi, such as Aspergillus fumigatus, may find your mattress attractive. They cause serious lung infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems."

Avcı emphasized that even if you shower before going to bed, millions of bacteria and fungi on your skin can contaminate your bedding, so bedding should be washed regularly.

Avcı offered the following advice on how often and how bedding should be washed:

Sheets and pillowcases should be washed once a week. If you are sick, sweat a lot, or live with a pet, reduce this time to every 3-4 days. Wash at 60 degrees or higher with detergent to kill bacteria and dust mites. Dry or iron in the dryer for deeper disinfection. Vacuum bedding at least once a week and air it every few days. Change blankets and duvet covers every two weeks, more often if your pet sleeps on them.