Holly Wilkinson, PhD, biophysician: "It's probably more important to wash your sheets than to shower at night."

The debate about whether it's better to shower at the beginning of the day or before bed continues. While some advocate showering in the morning as a way to reenergize , others opt for a nighttime shower to remove accumulated dirt. Science, however, offers a different perspective. As Dr. Holly Wilkinson, a biomedical specialist , explained in an interview with the BBC, the priority in terms of hygiene isn't shower time, but rather frequent cleaning of bed linens .

Even those who shower before bed don't prevent their bodies from sweating while they sleep . Researchers like Primrose Freestone, a microbiologist at the University of Leicester , tell the BBC that up to half a liter of sweat and thousands of skin cells are lost during the night. These residues accumulate on sheets and pillows, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and dust mites . So, while showering at night provides freshness , it's not enough to keep the bedroom free of microorganisms.

Wash your sheets frequently

For Wilkinson, the conclusion is clear: "It's probably more important to wash your sheets than to shower at night." Fabrics that aren't sanitized accumulate dirt and microorganisms that can survive for weeks . For people with allergies or respiratory problems , this prolonged exposure can worsen symptoms. Keeping your bed clean, ventilating the room, and changing bed linen regularly are more effective measures than relying solely on showering.

However, showering before bed also has benefits. Several studies have shown that a warm shower before bed helps you fall asleep faster, by causing changes in body temperature that promote relaxation. Still, Wilkinson reminds us that consistency is key: a daily shower, at any time of day, is enough to take care of your skin . What's really crucial, she emphasizes, is maintaining clean sheets and the sleeping environment .