For centuries people have slept with their animals, especially dogs, out of comfort and safety. This habit is still present today, but for different reasons. There actually are benefits for letting your pet in bed with you including easing anxiety and depression and feelings of relaxation.
While this allowance is good for your mental health, is it necessarily good for your overall health and your mattress’s state? We’re going to dive into the dangers of having a pet in bed and if you should allow it or not.
Dangers of Pets in Bed
We don’t want to scare you out of having your pet in bed with you at night. However, we think it’s important to be aware of some of the dangers and risks it poses.
Hygiene Concerns
Just think about all of the dirt, germs, and microscopic bugs your pet encounters when they’re running around outside. Now think of them bringing all of that into bed with you. Sure, cats clean themselves pretty often, but dogs are only as clean as you keep them.
Letting your pet in bed with you could also expose you to diseases. While there is a low chance of this happening, it is still a risk you take.
Worsen Allergies
Many people are allergic to pets. Sometimes they’re mild, other times they can be pretty severe. Even if you are mildly allergic to pet dander, letting them in your bed is not the best idea. Their fur and dander stay in the sheets and get into the fibers of your mattress. Therefore, even when your pet isn’t in bed with you, their fur is, which can aggravate and worsen your allergies.
Restless Sleep
Our sleep is so important for maintaining our physical and mental health. One of the best ways to get a great night’s sleep is to find the perfect mattress, but even if you have the best mattress on the market letting your pet sleep with you can ruin it all.
Animals, especially dogs, do not have the same sleep cycle as humans. Therefore, they can wake up in the middle of the night, disrupting your sleep and causing you to have a restless night. Sometimes your pet can cause you be uncomfortable in bed as well, causing even further disruption.
Should You Allow Your Pet in Bed?
The million-dollar question here is if you should or should not allow your pet in your bed. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you may like, though.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. If you sleep better or are more comfortable with your pet in bed, then feel free to allow it. Just be sure that you wash your sheets often and take extra care of your mattress.
Get a Comfortable Mattress for You and Your Pet
Are you in the market for a new comfortable mattress for you and your pet? Custom Mattress Makers offers durable mattresses available in custom sizes to fit any bed frame or space.
Check out our high-end mattress selection for more information.