Nobody likes the thought of a dirty bedroom, but just because a room is visibly clean and tidy doesn't mean that it actually is.
In fact, some areas which you might not think about right away could have 'millions' of bacteria. And what's worse, one of these grimy spots could actually be where you start and finish your day each and every day.
According to Brian Dillon, a bedroom interior expert at Crafted Beds, your mattress is likely to be the dirtiest item in your bedroom.
"Your mattress is a breeding ground for dirt and bacteria," says Dillon. "The average person sheds around 10 grams of dead skin cells each week, which is more than enough to feed a million dust mites.
"These tiny creatures thrive in warm, humid environments like our beds, and can cause a range of health problems including allergies, asthma, and eczema."
But it's not just dust mites that we need to worry about. According to Dillon, a recent study found that the average mattress contains up to 10 million bacteria.
"This is because our bodies produce sweat, oils, and other bodily fluids while we sleep, which all contribute to the growth of bacteria," he explains.
And if a grimy mattress isn't already enough of a worry, the expert warns that you should be washing your duvet and pillow cases more often as they also hold a lot of bacteria,
So, you might be wondering how often you should clean your mattress. Dillon suggests it's a good idea to clean your mattress at least once every six months.
"This will help to remove any dirt and bacteria that has built up over time," he says. "You can also invest in a mattress protector, which will help to keep your mattress clean and hygienic in between cleans."
The expert continues: "The best way to clean a mattress is to vacuum it thoroughly, using the upholstery attachment to remove any dirt and dust.
"You can also spot-clean any stains using a mixture of baking soda and water, or a mild detergent, just be sure to let the mattress dry completely before putting any bedding back on."
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