How often should you wash your sheets and how to properly clean them?

Did you know you spend around 50-60 hours a week in your bed? Dead skin, dust, hair, sweat and other bodily liquids are just a few of the things that build up on your sheets on a regular basis. It is suggested that you clean your sheets every week.
Having clean linen might be more important than you would think. Since we are most vulnerable in bed, dirty sheets may actually cause health issues, irritations, allergies and acne. It is important to have a schedule when it comes to washing your sheets so let’s see how often you should actually clean them.

Keep in mind that sheets and pillowcases are a lot like the clothes you wear every day. For most people, washing once a week would be enough. However, if you do not sleep in your bed every night, washing your sheets could be reduced to once every two weeks. In a similar way, people that spend more time on their beds or have dogs or other pets allowed on the bed, should wash their sheets every 3-4 days. In case of allergies or asthma, you should also wash your bedding more often.
Sheets must also be washed more often during summer or if you are experiencing seasonal allergies, for example.

The regular washing of your bed sheets will help prevent the buildup of dust mites, body oils, dead skin, sweat, dirt and grime. neglecting the cleanliness of your sheets for a while can lead to poor hygiene and stale smell. Skin irritations, rashes and allergies may also occur so do not postpone your sheet washing. If you want to keep your bedroom and bed clean and healthy, make sure you follow your cleaning schedule and do not miss washing day.

Here is how to properly wash your bed sheets:

1. Always make sure you take time to check the label for special instructions. Some fabrics require specific products or cleaning methods. Taking the wrong approach may harm your sheets, especially if they are of delicate nature. All labels must have information about water temperature, washing and drying machine cycles, products allowed etc.
2. Rinse in the hottest water recommended on the label. Keep in mind that while cotton can generally manage hotter water, polyester and a few other materials should be washed in warm water.
3. Pick your detergent of choice. While some people prefer biological detergent to use on their sheets, there are many options on the market. Eco-friendly, no additive ones that will reduce the amount of allergens or stronger chemical ones that will deeply clean your sheets to rid you of lice, scabies, fleas and others.
4. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to rinse your sheets twice just to make sure no laundry detergent residue is left on them.
5. Air dry or put in the dryer on a lower temperature cycle.

Here is some information about the different bedding pieces and how to maintain them:

Sheets and Pillowcases – Weekly
Make sure you wash them weekly in order to avoid dirt buildup. Avoid using hot water so the sheets do not shrink.

Pillows – every 2 months
Oils and dirt from our faces and hair soak into the pillow and might even reach its stuffing. It is best if you use pillow protectors that will reduce the amount of grime and the need for such regular washing.

Blankets – 1-2 times a month
Depending on the type of blanket and how often you use it. Always make sure to follow the label instructions and wash your blankets on their own.

Duvet Covers – weekly to monthly
You do not need to wash those as often, unless they have some visible dirt or stains on them. If you have no separate cover, however, you may need to wash the entire thing every 1 or 2 weeks.

Mattress covers – once a month
Mattress covers are great for protecting your mattress and extending its life. They can prevent damage, allergies, and keep your mattress clean and comfortable. You should wash those once a month, However if any spills occur, wash them immediately according to the label instructions.

Curtains and decorative bed covers – annually
Since those are mainly for decorative purposes, you will not need to wash them as often. Once or twice a year is enough to reduce buildup dust and grime.

Here are some tips on how to keep your bedding clean for longer: