Sleep expert says 'never' make your bed in the morning - especially at this time of year

Experts are warning against the seemingly innocuous habit of making your bed immediately after rising, particularly during the spring season, as it might be detrimental to your health. While many believe that neatly arranging the sheets, fluffing up the pillows, and straightening the duvet each morning sets the tone for a productive day, this routine task could be undermining your wellbeing.

Retired US Admiral William McRaven championed the act of bed-making so fervently that he suggested it had the potential to transform the world. In a famous address at the University of Texas, he extolled the virtues of this daily ritual: "You will come home to a bed that is made, that you made and a made bed gives you encouragement that tomorrow will be better. So if you want to change the world. Start off by making your bed."

His conviction led him to author a book on the subject, aptly named Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life... And Maybe The World, which delves into the profound impact this modest task can have on an individual's life.

However, sleep experts have issued a warning that this common habit could be causing unwanted health issues, particularly for those with allergies. As we welcome spring and the accompanying hay fever symptoms like itchy eyes, runny noses, and headaches, it's vital to acknowledge that your bedroom might be a haven for pollen, leading to sneezing at night and disrupted sleep, reports the Mirror.

Martin Seeley, CEO and sleep expert at MattressNextDay, suggests that making your bed might not be the healthiest practice as it can trap pollen and dust mites.

He said: "Contrary to popular belief, an unmade bed is less susceptible to trapping pollen and dust mites, those tiny creatures that can trigger a range of health issues, including asthma and allergies. Many studies show that unventilated bedding, caused by making your bed immediately, can create an environment that leads to higher concentrations of dust mites and their allergic proteins."

He further explained the benefits of leaving your duvet or sheets turned back: "Moreover, natural sunlight can play a role in preventing the accumulation of dust mites. Allowing your bedding to remain unmade for a while gives it exposure to natural sunlight. Sunlight has disinfectant properties and can help kill some bacteria and mites, further reducing potential health risks."