If anything has ever caused a parent to sigh in exasperation it’s a child’s refusal to make their bed.

Growing up our parents implored us to make our beds and in turn, we have tortured our own children with the same command, thinking it imperative to building an unbreakable sense of responsibility and self-care.

But now a London-based doctor is urging his followers not to make their beds if they know what’s good for them.

Posting a video to Tik Tok recently, Dr Sermed Mezher explains why not making your bed could actually be good for your health.

@newsbehindthestories #duet with @DrSermedMezher #makeyourbed #foryoupage #viraltiktok #newsbehindthestorys #fyp #doctorsadvise #cleanness ♬ Storytelling – Adriel

“Leave your bed unmade in the morning — your health will thank you for it,” Dr Mezher said.

“The reason why is our beds contain millions of these dust mites which actually feast on human flesh overnight and they survive because of the moisture.

“When we make our beds in the morning, it actually helps them to live and reproduce so that they can go on and multiply.

“You may not even know that you’re allergic to them but they can cause things like nasal congestion or annoying skin rashes that you didn’t even realise were because of them.”

According to Healthdirect.com.au dust mites are tiny insects that live in household dust and feed on discarded human skin. They don’t bite or sting but some people are allergic to them and their droppings and they can cause asthma, eczema, and hay fever.

They are most commonly found in carpets, bedding, clothing, and upholstered furniture.

Besides feeding on shed human skin, Dr Mezher said dust mites stay hydrated by absorbing water vapour from the air. This means they are sensitive to dryness.

He further added that it is challenging for dust mites to thrive in a dry environment, typically with relative humidity below 50 per cent. He said a dry environment is imperative for curbing the proliferation of dust mites.

“This is especially crucial in areas where dust mites are prevalent, such as bedding, carpets, and upholstered furniture,” he explained.

And this, Dr Mehzer explained, is how an unmade bed helps keep you healthy. According to the good doctor, the dust mites will eventually die of dehydration if they are exposed to dry conditions.

Dr Mehzer goes on to explain that just 30 minutes of airing your bed by not making it will release all the moisture you left in your bed during the night.

“Controlling the moisture levels in your home can play a pivotal role in minimising dust mite populations and creating a healthier indoor environment,” he said.

“Proper ventilation and adequate airflow in living spaces contribute to the overall control of moisture, inhibiting the conditions favorable for dust mite proliferation.

“Dryness not only hinders dust mite survival but also disrupts their reproductive cycle. By minimising the availability of water, individuals can mitigate the risk of allergic reactions associated with dust mite infestations.”

To banish dust mites from your bed, Mehzer further advises changing your bedsheets regularly, ideally every week, or at the most every two weeks. 

While airing out your bed is important, upgrading your linen is also a good way to get rid of those invisible nasties in your bed.

Combine this with some fresh pillows and your bedroom should be safe from the scourge of dust mites for a bit.