It looks clean, maybe even perfumed, but the pillowcase is probably dirtier than a toilet seat. Yes, you read that right...
In the summer, when the body produces more sweat at night, the pillow (and everything on it) becomes an ideal "home" for bacteria, fungi, and dead skin cells.
How serious is the situation?
- According to studies, a pillowcase can have around 17,000 colonies of bacteria.
- If you don't change it for a week? Prepare for up to 3 million bacteria.
- A typical pillow has up to 16 different types of fungi. Many of them can cause asthma, allergies, or skin infections.
Experts say that during the summer, the body loses between 500 and 700 ml of sweat every night. About 200 ml ends up directly on your sheets, pajamas, and pillowcase. If you don't wash them regularly, this moisture gives birth to microscopic spiders, fungi, and a collection of bacteria that you wouldn't want as your sleeping companions.
Biggest mistake? Making your bed as soon as you wake up. We know, it looks nice, but covering your pillows with blankets/sheets traps moisture that needs to dry out. This creates the perfect “spa” for microorganisms.
How to escape (and sleep without anxiety):
1. Change your pillowcases 2-3 times a week during the summer
2. Use only cotton materials, not polyester
3. Let your sheets and pillows air out in the morning - don't cover them immediately
4. Wash your pillows regularly, not just the covers (many of them are machine washable)
5. Don't sleep with wet hair and without removing your make-up
