Contamination of Bed Linen: Microbial and Allergen Risks

by Dr. Angela Southey. Chief Technical Officer | Expert in Indoor Air Quality, Product Validation & Laboratory Accreditation

How Contamination of Bed Linen Contributes to Microbial Growth and Allergen Exposure

Regular laundering of bed linen and pillows helps reduce bacteria, fungi, and dust mite allergens.

Federal health officials have reported that millions of people are affected every year by antibiotic-resistant bacteria, with tens of thousands of deaths linked to these infections. This highlights the urgent need for effective infection control strategies, particularly in healthcare environments.

One often overlooked factor is contaminated bed linen, mattresses, and pillows—items in constant close contact with patients. Research shows that common pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter aerogenes can survive standard washing processes at 60°C. This persistence underscores the importance of proper laundering and decontamination protocols.

Bed Linen as a Reservoir for Microbes and Allergens

Even in non-hospital environments, bedding plays a significant role in exposure to microbes and allergens. Humans continuously shed skin, hair, saliva, and other particles during sleep, all of which accumulate in pillows and sheets. While most are harmless for healthy individuals, people with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems are particularly vulnerable.

Dust mites and their allergens (Der p 1 and Der f 1) are a major contributor to allergic responses. Levels of just 2 µg/g of dust mite allergen in bedding dust are sufficient to trigger asthma and allergy symptoms.

Contamination of Bed Linen: Insights from Irish Pillow Study

In collaboration with Gabriel Scientific, Airmid Healthgroup conducted a national pillow study in Ireland. Laboratory analysis revealed:

• High levels of bacteria and fungi in older pillows

• Dust mite allergen concentrations exceeding thresholds for allergic response

• A correlation between contamination and poor sleep quality, as reported by participants

The findings reinforced the importance of regular laundering and replacement of bed linen and pillows, as well as better storage and handling practices.

Advances in Antimicrobial Textiles

To reduce contamination risk, new fabric technologies have emerged. Silver- and copper-impregnated textiles claim to disrupt microbial growth, offering odor control and infection prevention. However, challenges remain:

• Efficacy may decrease over time due to washing

• Potential environmental concerns, including silver accumulation in aquatic ecosystems

Looking ahead, the combination of easily laundered protective bedding systems and innovative antimicrobial textiles may provide valuable tools in infection control and allergen management.

Airmid Healthgroup Expertise

At Airmid Healthgroup, our scientists specialize in understanding how allergens, bacteria, viruses, and fungi interact with indoor environments. By conducting controlled environmental chamber studies, allergen testing, and validation of antimicrobial claims, we support manufacturers and healthcare providers in improving both infection control and indoor air quality.

Related Tests and Services at Airmid Helthgroup

Textile Testing: Performance Testing for Health-Focused Textiles

Allergen Barrier Testing

Textile Testing for Thermal and Water-Vapour Resistance

ISO 18184:2019 anti viral testing for textiles

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bed linen contamination, hospital infection control, dust mite allergens, bedding hygiene, antimicrobial textiles, indoor air quality, Airmid Healthgroup research