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Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director)
When we sleep, we naturally contaminate our mattress with sweat, saliva and dead skin. Over time, a whole series of microorganisms accumulate inside. This is why it is essential to clean it regularly, according to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo.
If you’ve owned your mattress for 10 years, you’ve slept on average 30,000 hours on it. That’s a lot of time spent contaminating the object with your sweat, saliva and dead skin, which naturally nestle inside. Result: your mattress contains many microorganisms, the existence of which you don’t necessarily suspect.
What microorganisms can be found in a mattress?
According to Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of Doctissimo, our mattresses are full of unwanted microorganisms. For example, we find:
- Bacteria: “A mattress can contain millions of bacteria, some of which are potentially pathogenic, such as Staphylococcus aureus.” details our expert;
- Of the mites : “UA mattress can harbor between 100,000 and 1.5 million dust mites” he also recalls;
- Molds: “Humidity encourages their development under the mattress” the doctor emphasizes.
Not to mention dead skin cells, sweat, dust and sometimes bed bugs.
What are the health consequences?
For Gérald Kierzek, these microorganisms are not without consequences for health. They can cause:
- Breathing problems, because “Dust mites and mold can cause allergies, asthma and irritations” ;
- Infections, from certain bacteria, especially in fragile people;
- Skin problems, when “the accumulation of impurities ends up promoting the appearance of pimples“.
To prevent these health problems, the doctor recommends following these tips:
- Air your room daily for at least 15 minutes;
- Wash bedding regularly at 40°C minimum;
- Use a breathable anti-mite cover to protect the mattress;
- Change your mattress every 7 to 10 years;
- Opt for a removable and washable mattress;
- Avoid chemically treated “anti-mite” or “antibacterial” mattresses, which can be more harmful than beneficial;
- Vacuum the mattress regularly;
- And finally, maintain a low humidity level in the room.
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