If you didn't already know, showering before bed is one of the best things you can do to ease hay fever symptoms. Yes, it's great for keeping bedding fresh and clean, but it can also help to remove pollen and other allergens that have accumulated on your skin throughout the day. If not washed off before bed, these allergens can transfer to your duvet and pillows, exposing you for a prolonged amount of time.
This exposure can aggravate hay fever symptoms that lead to significant discomfort and disrupted sleep. By showering before bedtime, you significantly reduce the allergen load on your body, thereby minimising the risk of transferring these irritants to your sleeping environment.
What happens if you don't shower before bed?
Not showering before bed can lead to increased exposure to allergens when sleeping, resulting in hay fever symptoms such as nasal congestion or severe coughing.
In turn, your sleep will be negatively impacted, especially when it comes to interrupting your circadian rhythm. If continued, your body becomes used to the discomfort and will stop you falling asleep and staying asleep most nights. This will also lead to excessive fatigue during the day, making it hard to concentrate and go about your normal routine.
What else can you do besides showering at night?
1. Change and wash bedding regularly
It's a good idea to wash your sheets, pillowcases and any blankets at least once a week to remove allergens. A hot wash is always a good idea, or you could use hypoallergenic covers for your mattress and pillows to create a barrier.
2. Keep windows closed
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
Remember to keep windows closed, especially during high pollen seasons. This will stop any nasties coming in and prevent you suffering from any symptoms. If you get too hot at night, invest in one of the best fans.
3. Use an air purifier
Using one the best air purifiers (especially one with a HEPA filter) can help remove allergens from the air in your bedroom, improving air quality and reducing allergic reactions. Make sure to check out our quiet-approved air purifiers if you're a light sleeper.
Make sure to check out the 5 ways to allergy-proof your bedroom for better sleep and 7 ways to tackle spring allergies at bedtime to find out more.
Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.
-
This Versace fragrance was top of my Christmas list – it's almost $50 cheaper in early Cyber Monday deal
Pick up the iconic Versace Eros for less this weekend at Walmart
By Sam Cross Published
-
Nespresso’s best pod coffee machine is under $100 in Cyber Monday deal
Get 37% off the Nespresso Vertuo Pod+ in Best Buy’s Cyber Monday sale
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published