The question of whether you should make your bed every day is one of those debates that stirs strong opinions. On one side, there are people who swear by the routine, claiming it provides a sense of accomplishment and order. On the other side, some argue that making your bed is unnecessary or even detrimental for health reasons. This seemingly simple question—should you make the bed every day or not—has layers of nuance, from personal psychology to potential health impacts.
Let’s dive into the arguments both for and against making your bed daily, and explore how individual preferences and lifestyle factors can influence your decision.
The Benefits of Making Your Bed Every Day
1. Sense of Accomplishment and Productivity
One of the most compelling arguments for making your bed every day is the psychological boost it provides. When you begin your day by completing a task, even something as small as tidying your bed, it sets a positive tone for the rest of your day. In his 2014 commencement speech, Admiral William H. McRaven famously said, “If you want to change the world, start by making your bed.” The logic is simple: completing this task early in the morning gives you a sense of accomplishment and creates momentum for tackling other tasks.
For many people, this routine fosters a sense of discipline and control. Your environment is often a reflection of your mind, and keeping a tidy bed can lead to a tidier, more organized mindset.
2. Improved Aesthetic and Tranquility
A made bed can significantly enhance the overall look of your bedroom. Walking into a room with a neatly arranged bed can create a feeling of calm and order. This might seem trivial, but studies have shown that your physical environment can impact your mood and stress levels. If your surroundings are clean and organized, you’re likely to feel more relaxed and focused. Conversely, a messy environment can contribute to a sense of chaos and anxiety.
For those who value aesthetics and feel more at peace in a well-kept space, making the bed is a simple step that creates a more inviting and pleasant atmosphere. This small act can make your bedroom a haven of rest and relaxation.
3. Fostering Discipline and Routine
Making your bed is a cornerstone of habit formation. Establishing this as part of your morning routine can encourage the development of other healthy habits. Psychologists often refer to this as the “domino effect,” where accomplishing one task leads to a chain reaction of productive behaviors.
For those who struggle with building structure into their day, this simple habit can be the first step toward developing a routine that includes other beneficial practices, such as exercising, planning your day, or even meditating.
The Case Against Making Your Bed Every Day
1. Health Considerations: Dust Mites and Allergens
One of the most common arguments against making your bed every day is that it can actually trap dust mites, allergens, and moisture. When you sleep, your body releases sweat and warmth into the sheets, which can create an ideal breeding ground for dust mites. These microscopic creatures thrive in warm, humid environments, and a tightly made bed could seal in the moisture they need.
Leaving your bed unmade allows air to circulate, which can help to dehydrate the sheets and reduce the presence of dust mites. Some people argue that this can be beneficial for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. It might seem counterintuitive, but an unmade bed could contribute to a healthier sleeping environment by reducing allergen exposure.
2. Time and Energy
Let’s face it—making the bed can feel like a time-consuming chore, especially if you have a complex bedding arrangement with multiple sheets, blankets, and pillows. For some, spending precious minutes of their morning meticulously tucking in sheets and arranging decorative pillows is not worth the effort. This is particularly true for people with busy schedules who would prefer to spend that time getting extra rest or preparing for their day in other ways.
In some cases, making the bed might not provide enough tangible benefits to justify the time it takes. For people who don’t mind a more relaxed look in their bedroom, leaving the bed unmade is a small act of rebellion against unnecessary tasks.
3. Comfort Preference
Some individuals find that they sleep better when their bed is not tightly made. Loosely draped sheets and blankets can feel more comfortable and less restrictive. If you’re the type of person who likes to crawl into a cozy, unstructured bed at night, then making it every morning might seem pointless or even counterproductive.
Sleep quality is deeply personal, and for some, an unmade bed provides the optimal environment for rest. Tightly tucked-in sheets can feel suffocating or uncomfortable, making the argument against making the bed more of a comfort choice than a chore-related one.
Finding a Middle Ground: Alternatives to Making the Bed
If you find yourself conflicted between the desire for a tidy space and the practical concerns of comfort and health, there are compromise solutions.
1. Make It Partially
You don’t have to make your bed military-style every day. For those who want some order but don’t have time for a full bed-making routine, simply straightening the sheets and pulling up the duvet can be a quick and easy way to create a semblance of tidiness without much effort. This approach maintains the visual appeal of a made bed while cutting down on the time and energy required.
2. Time It Right
If you’re concerned about dust mites and moisture, consider delaying the bed-making process until later in the day. After waking up, pull back the sheets and let the bed air out for a while. This allows any trapped moisture to evaporate, creating a less hospitable environment for dust mites. Once the bed has had time to breathe, you can make it up later in the morning.
3. Do What Works for You
Ultimately, the choice to make your bed or not is a deeply personal one. Some people thrive on the structure and order that comes with a made bed, while others find it an unnecessary or even uncomfortable task. The most important thing is to consider what works best for you and your lifestyle. There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to this daily ritual.
Conclusion: To Make or Not to Make?
The debate over whether to make the bed every day isn’t as clear-cut as it might seem. On one side, the practice can foster discipline, create a sense of accomplishment, and contribute to a peaceful, orderly environment. On the other hand, leaving the bed unmade can help reduce allergens, save time, and enhance comfort for some people.
The decision ultimately comes down to individual preferences, priorities, and health considerations. For some, making the bed is a non-negotiable part of their morning routine, while others find freedom and comfort in a more relaxed approach. There’s no right or wrong answer—it’s all about what makes you feel happier, healthier, and more in control of your day.