Can't sleep? Why washing your bedding may be the answer - expert
NOVEMBER is fast approaching with the clocks due to go back in less than two weeks. With more time spent in the warmth of our cosy bed sheets, what should you really be changing about your bedtime routine when winter arrives?
Cleaning hack: Home expert advises on washing bed sheets
At midnight on October 31, households across the UK will gain an extra hour in bed as the clocks dial back. While frequent washing is a no brainer when it comes to cleaning bedsheets, there are a few more things you should be paying attention to as the winter weather arrives. Experts at Snoozel Green have revealed their top tips to answer your winter-bedding questions for a better night’s sleep.
Why you should wash your bed sheets more in the winter
Everyone loves the feeling of fresh sheets when they crawl into bed at night and while many of us don’t need an excuse to switch up our bedding, winter provides the perfect reason to do it more often.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, Rob Davey, sleep expert at Snoozel Green said: “As the nights draw in you have to take a little extra care in keeping your bedding clean.
“In general, during winter, you do bring in a bit more dirt to your household as the days get wetter.”
As the ground grows muddier and the autumn leaves fall from their trees, outdoor clothing and bags can gather bugs and bacteria which could make their way into your bed without you even knowing.
Rob added: “Inevitably some of this additional dirt will make its way into the bedroom, so be sure to up your vacuuming schedule and wash your sheets regularly to avoid the accumulation of dirt and dust in your bedding.”
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As the temperature drops, damp and mould become a common problem for homeowners
Using your heating is essential to keep your home warm while combating damp spots around your home, but this same humidity can provide the perfect environment for bed bugs.
Mould, bed bugs and dust mites, who all love a warm moist place to hide, can become increasingly present in our beloved beds through the colder months.
Mattresses and bedsheets are particularly affected by these nasty bugs and mould spores so it’s important to pay particular attention to the type of bedding you’re using during the winter.
Experts at Snoozel Green recommend:
- Changing your bedding more regularly - once a week is ideal
- Using natural fibres and materials for your sheets and mattress that breathe and promote a dry sterile environment
Natural and breathable fibres like cotton or linen are hostile to the growth of bacteria, bed bugs and dust mites.
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Which duvet should I use in winter?
Keeping warm through the night starts with the right duvet.
While warmth is ideal, it’s important to choose a tog level that suits your sleeping habits - so opt for a lower tog if you notice you’re a particularly warm-bodied snoozer.
Rob said: “The standard tog scale runs from one through to 15.
“7.5 to 10 tog duvets are ideal for autumn months and winter if you feel quite warm during the night.
“If you do feel the cold a lot, 10 tog or over are ideal for winter.”
What bedding materials are best for me?
If you have difficulties sleeping throughout the night, your bedding might be the problem. Sleep is an important part of everyone’s wellbeing, affecting mental health, productivity, moods and appetite.
It’s important to change elements of your bedding with the seasons, for better breathability and durability.
Rob explained: “It’s also important to choose the right materials if you suffer from asthma or any other pulmonary function allergies.
“There are many organic and 100 percent cotton pillows on the market which ensure you don’t breathe in or absorb mysterious chemicals.
“I personally recommend 100 percent natural latex, which provides a great level of support whilst being breathable and chemical-free.”
In terms of fillings, feather and down duvets are known to provide a high level of warmth as they are more capable of trapping air.
Goose or duck feathers and down have a higher price tag, though they offer a luxurious nights sleep if you don’t suffer from allergies.
Rob added: “If you sleep on your front, a softer pillow will allow you to sink in, but if you prefer to sleep on your back, a thicker pillow will provide you with more support.”