Sunbathing Pillows: Does It Really Kill Microbes?

🎯 Reality Check: Partially correct, but exaggerated

📝 Why: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can kill some bacteria and help reduce mold spores on surfaces. But, dust mites burrow inside fabrics and pillows, so the sun’s rays often can’t reach or destroy all of them. According to the NHS, washing bedding at 60°C is much more effective for killing dust mites (“Dust mites and their droppings are killed by washing at 60C.” – NHS). The American Academy of Dermatology also notes that regular washing is key for allergy sufferers, not just sun exposure.

🔗 Source: NHS – “Dust mite allergy”, American Academy of Dermatology – “How to reduce dust mites in your home”, Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology