Yahoo News Common winter bed clothing '20 times dirtier than toilet seat'
As the UK braces for colder temperatures and snow makes an appearance, many people are reaching for their cosiest socks to keep warm at night. However, a lab report has uncovered a disturbing reality that could make you rethink this winter habit.
In a new study, bed retailer MattressNextDay said it had uncovered just how unhygienic a common sleep practice is. To uncover these unsettling truths, MattressNextDay's research team conducted an extensive study involving swab tests on socks worn from 7am to 11pm.
Participants wore the same socks while going about their daily routines, including wearing shoes and exercising. The swabs were then sent to a lab, where bacteria levels found on the socks were compared to those on doormats and TV remotes.
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The findings were particularly alarming for the 18% of adults who regularly sleep in socks. The research revealed that socks worn throughout the day were not just a little dirty - they are 20 times dirtier than a toilet seat .
Worryingly, as part of its research, MattressNextDay surveyed 1,000 people and found that less than a third (30%) of sock-sleepers reported putting on a fresh pair before getting between the sheets. This means that many individuals are unknowingly inviting harmful bacteria into their beds, potentially compromising their health and sleep quality, the research team said.
Cockroach droppings bacteria found on bedroom socks
Among the bacteria identified on the tested socks was pseudomonas aeruginosa, a pathogen commonly associated with cockroach faeces. The team said this discovery was particularly alarming given that pseudomonas aeruginosa thrives in moist, warm conditions.
With the average person sweating up to 700ml per night, and the typical bed temperature ranging between 15.5C to 20C, bedrooms provide an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
While Pseudomonas aeruginosa may not pose significant risks to most healthy individuals, Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy warns: "Pseudomonas infection poses a threat to those who are immunocompromised, such as people with diabetes, cystic fibrosis, burns, cancer, organ transplant recipients, and newborn babies. We need to keep pseudomonas levels under control to protect this vulnerable population."
Benefits of wearing fresh socks to bed
However, despite the concerning findings about sock hygiene, wearing a fresh, clean, pair of socks to bed offers several benefits:
Increased likelihood of orgasm: A study by the University of Groningen found that 80% of participants could reach orgasm while wearing socks compared to just 50% without.
Reduced hot flushes and night sweats: Wearing socks can help regulate body temperature during sleep, making it ideal for those who suffer from temperature fluctuations at night.
Fewer nighttime awakenings: Research shows that sock-wearers experience 7.5 times fewer awakenings during the night compared to those without socks.
Longer sleep duration: Those who wear socks to bed sleep an average of 32 minutes longer due to improved core temperature regulation.
While wearing socks can enhance sleep quality and comfort, it is crucial to change into a fresh pair before getting under the covers. This simple habit can help you enjoy the benefits of sock-wearing without spreading dirty bacteria around your bed.
