Collapsing on your comfy bed and cuddling under the duvet is like being in heaven, but sneakily snuggling with you are about 10 million dust mites.
North Coast residents, Renée Singarum and Lucretia Ramnath, are microbiologists at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. We spoke to them about bedroom hygiene and how to prevent sleeping with bugs.
“Germs are found everywhere. In fact we need the good germs, but there are many others such as E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella which may cause skin infections and allergies,” said Singarum.
According to Singarum, E. coli bacteria multiply every 20 minutes, so the smallest number of cells can grow into a huge population while you are in dreamland, making regular cleaning habits important for a healthy sleep.
“Pillow and mattress protectors should be cleaned every one to two weeks. Your bed linen needs a weekly wash,” she said.
She added that although this seems often, it is necessary especially on the North Coast due to the humidity and heat, which gives an ideal breeding ground for germs, mold, mildew and other unwanted creepy crawlies.
“Your pillows need a wash once a year, but it is a good idea to place them in the sun for a day every month or so, as the UV rays will kill most germs,” she said.
Your mattress on the other hand needs a more vigorous clean.
“Spray your mattress with an odourless non-toxic bed bug spray and then vacuum, ensuring the room is well aerated for a few hours. This should be done once or twice a year,” said Ramnath.
In addition, there are other sources of germ carriers lingering around the bedroom which Singarum and Ramnath say you should be aware of.
“Your pajamas should be washed every two to three days, as they absorb a lot of perspiration and germs from your skin during the night,” said Ramnath.
“It is recommended that shoes be left outside the bedroom, since they carry many germs.” Germs may also be found in handbags, wallets, mobile phones as well as hair and make-up brushes within the bedroom.
Our resident microbiologists recommend placing your handbag on a hook, to avoid the spread of germs and the use of a disinfectant to clean your belongings.
Ventilation is also important, as closed rooms trap humidity, ideal for the growth of mildew and mold. So leave a window open during the day and night, to keep fresh air circulating.
Sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite!
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