California Doctor Says Don’t Make Your Bed Right After Waking Up — It Can Harm Your Health

Many people believe that making the bed right after waking up is a sign of good habits and cleanliness. But a doctor from California says this simple morning routine may actually harm your health. Dr. Myroslav Figura, an anesthesiologist at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Centre and UCLA Santa Monica Medical Centre, advises that it is better to leave your bed unmade for a while before arranging it.

In a viral Instagram video, Dr. Figura explained that human beds are home to millions of tiny insects known as dust mites. These tiny creatures feed on the moisture that comes from sweat and dead skin cells left on the sheets during sleep. According to him, when you make your bed immediately after waking up, you trap that moisture inside the sheets and mattress. This warm and damp environment becomes the perfect breeding ground for dust mites.

Dr. Figura said, “Stop. Do not make your bed in the morning. Your health depends on it.” He added that whether a person sleeps alone or with a partner, their bed always contains millions of dust mites. “If you have a two-year-old pillow, about 10 percent of its weight is dust mites and their waste,” he said. These tiny bugs are not only unpleasant but also harmful to health, as they produce allergens that can trigger asthma, sneezing, and blocked noses.

The doctor explained that the best way to stop dust mites from multiplying is to let the bed “breathe.” Leaving the bed unmade for one or two hours after waking up allows sweat and moisture to dry up naturally. As the bedding dries, the environment becomes less comfortable for dust mites to survive. “When you sleep, you sweat. When you make your bed right away, you trap that moisture. Dust mites then start multiplying. But if you leave the bed unmade for some time, the moisture dries up and their numbers drop,” he explained.

Dr. Figura also advised that washing bed sheets and pillowcases regularly plays an important role in keeping them clean. He recommends washing them at least once every two weeks, or even weekly if possible. Regular cleaning helps remove dust, dead skin cells, and other allergens that can build up over time. “Clean sheets mean fewer mites and a healthier sleep environment,” he said.

He also joked that people shouldn’t feel guilty about not making their bed immediately, saying, “It’s not lazy, it’s sanitary.” His message has gained attention online, with many viewers surprised by his advice. Some people admitted they already delay making their beds and now feel good knowing it might actually be better for their health. Others expressed disbelief, saying they always thought making the bed first thing was a good habit.

Dust mites are common in all homes, even in clean ones. They are invisible to the eye but can cause problems for people with allergies or asthma. Their waste particles can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses, and difficulty breathing. Experts agree that keeping bedding dry and clean is one of the best ways to reduce dust mites.

Dr. Figura’s suggestion may sound unusual, but it has a scientific explanation. Studies have shown that dust mites thrive in humid conditions. By allowing sunlight and air to reach the bed, you make it harder for them to survive. This means your bedroom can become healthier and your sleep more comfortable.

In conclusion, the doctor’s advice is simple — take your time before making your bed. Open the windows, let the air circulate, and allow your sheets to dry. It may go against what most people learned growing up, but skipping that quick morning task might actually be the best thing you can do for your health.