Kinston University (United Kingdom) researchers reported in 2005 that an unmade bed, while unattractive to the eyes, is unappealing to house dust mites, tiny bugs (shorter than 1 mm long) that feed on shed human skin cells and produce excretions that, when inhaled by people, can cause allergic reactions and asthma.  According to the team, the average bed can house as many as 1.5 million dust mites.  When a bed is made immediately or shortly after people get out of it, moisture can become trapped in the sheets and mattress, creating a haven for the mites.  Moisture is minimized in unmade beds, and as a result the mites will more be more likely to dehydrate and die than feast and multiply. 

Infection Protection, available from A4M, shares insights on how to avoid  germs in everyday settings.  Call to order (US tel: 773-528-4333), or visit the World Health Network Bookstore online at http://www.worldhealth.net.