Microbiologist Advises More Frequent Sheet Changes Amid Bedbug Surge
A scientist recommends changing bed linens every four to five days for city dwellers due to increased environmental pollutants and a rise in bedbug infestations.
Scientists are urging individuals in urban areas to wash their bed sheets more frequently, specifically every four to five days, to combat a growing bedbug crisis. This recommendation comes as cases of the tiny bloodsucking insects have reportedly surged by 20 to 25 percent across major European cities.
Dr. Gareth Nye, a Biomedical Sciences lecturer at the University of Salford, stated that while a weekly wash is generally sufficient, city residents face higher concentrations of airborne pollutants, exhaust particulates, and general dust. These environmental factors, combined with the rise in bedbug infestations, necessitate more frequent cleaning.
According to Valpas, a hospitality technology company, Europe is experiencing a significant increase in bedbug activity, particularly in hotel rooms. Martim Gois, co-founder and chief executive of Valpas, described the current situation as 'peak bed bug.'
Bedbugs can inhabit mattress seams, bed frames, and upholstered furniture. They are often introduced into homes via luggage, clothing, or second-hand items. To effectively eliminate bedbugs and their eggs, Dr. Nye recommends washing bedding on a hot cycle of at least 60°C (140°F) for a minimum of 30 minutes. He also suggests using a tumble dryer after washing, as its heat can be more effective for eradication than the washing machine alone. It is important not to overload the dryer or washing machine to ensure heat penetrates the fabric.
Beyond sheets, Dr. Nye advises regular vacuuming of mattress seams, bed frame crevices, and the floor around the bed to physically remove any hidden pests or eggs.
For travelers, Martim Gois recommends exercising caution, especially on long train journeys. Bedbugs can travel in luggage, and longer trips provide more opportunities for them to emerge. Gois advises choosing hotels certified as bedbug-safe or thoroughly inspecting accommodations upon arrival. He also suggests keeping luggage zipped and off seats, and opting for hard-shell suitcases over fabric ones, as bedbugs prefer dark, undisturbed hiding places.
Signs of a bedbug infestation can include small bugs or eggs in mattress and furniture crevices, bites on the skin, tiny black spots on mattresses (which can be dried feces), and blood spots on sheets. While bedbugs can carry bacteria, they are not known to spread disease, though their bites can cause itching and allergic reactions.