What is it about?
This study investigated the hygienic practices related to bed linen use among students at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, and examined the microbial content of their mattresses and bed linens. Conducted in two phases, the research first employed a cross-sectional survey to assess students' hygiene behaviors and then performed laboratory analyses to determine microbial loads on bed linens and mattresses. The study found that although both male and female students generally followed similar hygiene routines, female students tended to wash their bed linens more frequently. The laboratory results revealed higher microbial contamination on bed linens than on mattresses, underscoring the critical need for regular and thorough cleaning practices. The findings highlight the importance of promoting hygiene awareness and education among university students to safeguard their health and academic performance.
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Why is it important?
This study is important because it highlights the direct connection between personal hygiene practices specifically bed linen care and student health and well-being. University students often live in shared or confined spaces, making them more vulnerable to microbial infections that can arise from unclean bedding. By identifying the presence of microorganisms on bed linens and mattresses and linking them to student hygiene habits, the research provides evidence-based insight into the need for better hygiene education. The findings can inform awareness campaigns and institutional policies that promote cleanliness, ultimately helping to reduce health risks, improve students' quality of life, and support academic performance.
Perspectives
This study approaches the issue of hygiene among university students from both a public health and behavioural perspective. It emphasizes how everyday practices such as the frequency of washing bed linens can significantly influence microbial exposure and health outcomes. By combining a cross-sectional survey with laboratory analyses, the study provides a scientific and human-centred perspective on how students' habits affect their living environment. It also brings attention to the often-overlooked role of bedding hygiene in academic settings, encouraging universities, health educators, and students themselves to take proactive steps toward cleaner and healthier living conditions.
Dr (Mrs) Patience Danquah Monnie
University of Cape Coast
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Hygienic Practices of Bed Linens among University of Cape Coast Students in Ghana, African Journal of Empirical Research, December 2024, AJER Publishing,
DOI: 10.51867/ajernet.5.4.157.
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