Why You Shouldn’t Make Your Bed First Thing

You Should Know: Making your bed may give you a sense of accomplishment and order to start the day, but there’s a case for leaving it unmade for a little while. Overnight, your body releases moisture through sweat and breathing (as much as 700 mL!), and immediately covering that damp bedding can create a warmer, more humid environment where dust mites thrive. Experts suggest pulling back the covers and letting your bed air out for 30 to 60 minutes before making it.

Going Deeper: The gross-out factor may be bigger than the actual health threat. Dust mites are microscopic creatures found in many homes, and their droppings and body fragments can trigger allergies and asthma, but they don’t generally make healthy people sick. The bigger concern is for people who are sensitive to them, like those with severe allergies. Keeping indoor humidity below 50%, washing bedding weekly, and using allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers can help reduce exposure.

Takeaway: You don’t have to choose between a tidy bedroom and a healthier sleep environment. Simply make your bed later — after you’ve showered, had coffee, or have otherwise given your bedding some time to breathe.

Bottom Line: Making your bed isn’t unhealthy. But waiting a little while before doing it is an easy way to keep the ritual without trapping overnight moisture under the covers.