Your bed could be hiding the biggest causes of snoring, but help could be hidden in the freezer

Causes of snoring: Often, snoring is caused when relaxed muscle tone and bulky tissue restrict airflow, leading to turbulent breathing sounds (Image: Canva)

• Mattresses and bedding may emit chemicals and allergens that worsen snoring.
• Dust mites and heat in bedding may trigger nasal irritation and blocked airways
• Washing sheets is better than freezing for reducing allergens and microbes.

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When you think of snoring, you imagine images of flabby necks, late-night pints, or sleeping on the back. But what if the answer was not just about what’s in your throat, but what’s in your bed?

Recent study suggests that a revolting ecosystem might be lurking in the nooks and fibres of your mattress and bedding, worsening the very vibration that keeps partners awake and sleep specialists intrigued.

A study in ScienceDirect reveals that mattresses, pillows, and bed frames can release different chemical compounds, like phthalates and flame retardants. These emissions can rise when the surface gets warmer or more humid from close contact with your body.

Also read | Snoring and sleep apnea: Difference between the two, symptoms, causes, treatment options

Experts estimate up to 45 per cent of adults snore occasionally, with lifestyle and anatomy playing starring roles. Often, snoring is caused when relaxed muscle tone and bulky tissue restrict airflow, leading to turbulent breathing sounds. However, this new angle from scientists adds an environmental twist that may leave sufferers squirming.

Causes of snoring

Understand the different reasons that cause snoring; and why your bed could be a part of the problem:

Dust, droplets and more

Microscopic particles thrive in the warm, humid environment of bedding; from dead skin cells to dust mites. Though invisible, these tiny stowaways create a micro-ecosystem that can trigger nasal irritation and inflammation, leading to blocked airways and that familiar nighttime rumble. Allergic reactions or airway irritation can make nasal passages swell and snoring louder.

Also read | Snoring, insomnia and poor sleep could be ageing your brain, raising dementia risk, study finds

Humidity and heat

Your bed can be warmer than you realise. Heat and moisture from your breath and sweat can feed dust mites and bacteria, inviting a cycle that worsens congestion, a known snoring trigger. Chronic nasal congestion from these micro-irritants is one of the recognised causes of habitual snoring.

Sleep position and debris dispersal

Sleeping on your back may reposition tissues in the throat (a well-known snoring factor) while spreading dust and mites closer to airways.

Unwashed bedding amplifies irritants

Lack of regular deep cleaning allows allergens to build up and create stronger reactions in the nose and throat.

How to stop snoring: Check your freezer

Some findings suggest freezing bedding might reduce microbial life or allergenic activity that could irritate breathing channels. Yes, people really do store sheets in the freezer, next to the ice cream, believing it kills bacteria, makes ironing easier, prevents mildew, and cools the sheets for a better night’s sleep. However, in an interview with Bed Threads Journal, registered nurse and naturopath Madeline Calfas says this step is unnecessary, since regular washing and storage offer the same benefits.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.