A fierce debate has erupted on social media over a seemingly simple domestic question: how often should you change your pyjamas? While some users argue that a fresh pair every night is excessive, a leading clinical microbiologist has now delivered a definitive verdict that prioritises health and hygiene.
The Social Media Divide on Sleepwear
The conversation ignited online, revealing a stark divide in British habits. One camp expressed disbelief at the idea of frequent changes, with comments such as, 'Every night is crazy and unnecessary,' and another user quipping that pyjamas were a 'weekly subscription.' Conversely, others were adamant about daily changes, citing concerns over sweat and crotch odour. This digital disagreement highlights the confusion surrounding this basic aspect of personal care.
This online spat is set against a backdrop of previous studies suggesting the average Brit wears their pyjamas for up to two weeks without washing them. The new expert guidance, however, suggests this common practice could be posing significant health risks.
The Scientific Verdict on Pyjama Changing
Dr Primrose Freestone, an associate professor in clinical microbiology at the University of Leicester, has stepped in to settle the argument. Speaking to the Daily Mail, she provided clear, evidence-based advice. You should change your pyjamas every single day, especially if you tend to sweat at night.
Dr Freestone did concede a small margin for those who shower immediately before bed and are not particularly sweaty. In these specific cases, you might stretch the wear to three or four days at an absolute maximum. For the vast majority, however, re-wearing sleepwear repeatedly increases the risk of developing persistent body odour and even harmful infections.
Why Dirty Pyjamas Pose a Health Risk
The science behind the recommendation is clear. 'Pyjamas are in close contact with the skin of the human body, which is naturally coated in millions of bacteria, fungi and viruses,' Dr Freestone explains. Every person produces approximately half a pint of sweat each night, which is largely absorbed by their nightclothes.
This creates a warm, damp environment that acts as a perfect breeding ground for microbes. These organisms feed on the dead skin cells, sweat, and body oils that accumulate in the fabric, excreting chemicals that cause the familiar smell of body odour. The problem is compounded if you eat while wearing your pyjamas, as food particles provide an additional feast for bacteria.
Perhaps more alarmingly, Dr Freestone points out that flatulence can shoot tiny amounts of faecal matter into your pyjamas. This builds up over time, contributing significantly to odour and hygiene issues. Research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine confirms that soiled pyjamas and bedlinen can spread infections, particularly those linked to faecal matter like norovirus.
Furthermore, the skin cells in unwashed pyjamas feed house dust mites, whose droppings are highly allergenic and can trigger asthma attacks. Fungi thriving in the fabric can also lead to respiratory issues, including a severe lung infection called Aspergillus fumigatus in immunocompromised individuals.
How to Wash Pyjamas Properly
Simply changing your pyjamas is not enough; they must be washed correctly to eliminate health risks. A low-temperature cycle may remove visible dirt but will not kill the bacteria and fungi. Dr Freestone advises that to effectively destroy germs, pyjamas should be washed at a minimum of 60°C (140°F).
If a high-temperature wash is not possible, using a laundry disinfectant is a good alternative. For added assurance, she recommends a hot tumble dry or a treatment with a steam iron to eliminate any remaining bacterial and viral pathogens. Ensuring your sleepwear is properly cleaned is a critical step in protecting your health and maintaining good hygiene.
