Neuroscientist and sleep researcher Laura Bojarskaite from the University of Oslo has warned the 16 million Britons who suffer from hay fever not to dry their bed sheets outdoors during the current heatwave. The Met Office has forecast a 'very high' pollen count across the West Midlands and southern regions of the UK this week, with temperatures expected to reach the mid-30s Celsius.
Why drying sheets outdoors is problematic
Bojarskaite explained that during periods of high pollen counts, bedsheets, pillowcases, and blankets left to dry outdoors can collect pollen grains. 'Bringing those sheets into bed means you're introducing allergens directly into the environment where you spend seven to nine hours every night, potentially prolonging exposure and worsening symptoms while you sleep,' she said.
This can significantly impact sleep quality. 'Hay fever can significantly disrupt sleep, and poor sleep can in turn make allergy symptoms feel even more difficult to cope with,' Bojarskaite noted. Her research has been published in leading journals such as Nature Communications. She described this as 'a vicious cycle during allergy season.'
Impact on sleep and daily functioning
The hallmarks of seasonal allergies, including blocked noses, sneezing, and irritated eyes, make it considerably more challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep. 'Nasal congestion is particularly problematic because it increases mouth breathing and sleep fragmentation, reducing the amount of restorative sleep,' Bojarskaite said.
People with allergic rhinitis are also more likely to experience daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, and reduced cognitive performance, as their sleep has been disrupted. 'Research consistently shows that allergic rhinitis is associated with poorer sleep quality, increased night-time awakenings, and greater daytime sleepiness,' she added.
Practical advice for allergy sufferers
Bojarskaite emphasised that this does not mean everyone must avoid drying laundry outside all summer. However, during peak pollen days—or if symptoms are severe—drying bedding indoors or using a tumble dryer is a sensible precaution. 'The goal is to reduce the amount of pollen that reaches your bedroom while keeping your airways as clear as possible,' she said.
She also stressed the importance of creating a recovery environment in the bedroom. 'Your bedroom should be a recovery environment, not an extension of the outdoors. During pollen season, reducing allergens in the bedroom can make a meaningful difference to both your allergy symptoms and your sleep quality,' Bojarskaite explained.
Avoid compensating with more time in bed
One crucial factor to bear in mind is that many people try to compensate for poor sleep by spending more time in bed. 'Unfortunately, if you're awake because you're congested or uncomfortable, simply lying in bed longer rarely improves sleep quality. Treating the allergy itself is often the most effective way to improve sleep,' Bojarskaite concluded.
