Washing bedding at low temperatures does little to eliminate dust mites, which thrive in warm, humid environments and cause allergies through their droppings.
Allergies linked to bed mites
Allergies are often caused by the droppings of bed mites, microscopic creatures that live in mattresses and pillows. These droppings contain allergens that can trigger reactions even after regular washing with standard detergents.
Washing at low temperatures is ineffective
Washing bedding at low temperatures does little to eliminate bed mites. This method only rinses the sheets without effectively removing the mites, and it can even maintain the humidity they thrive in.
High temperature kills bed mites
Bed mites can only be effectively killed at temperatures of 60 degrees Celsius or higher. Lower temperature washes do not eliminate them and may even create a more favorable environment for their survival.
Energy savings vs. health risks
Many households choose to wash bedding at lower temperatures to protect fabrics and save energy. A cold wash can save up to 60% of the energy used, but it risks leaving the bedding as a warm, moist habitat for mites.
Bed mites feed on dead skin
Bed mites feed on dead skin cells shed during sleep. A single person can shed enough skin particles each night to support entire colonies of mites living in their mattress and pillows.
Study highlights the issue
A 2008 study published in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology compared the effectiveness of different washing methods in reducing allergens from bed mites.
