How Often Should You Wash Your Bedding

Posted on 13/04/2023

Taking Care of Your Sheets and Bedding Regularly

It is said that people spend one third of their life sleeping. This means that your bed is probably the place where you stay the most. If you are spending that much time in one spot, you need to be sure that it is clean and safe. There are all sorts of things lurking in the fibbers of your sheets that may impose risk to your health.
If you could put your bedding under a microscope, you would be surprised and maybe a little bit shocked of what you could see.  For example, dust mites inhabit almost every bed. These microscopic bugs live, feed on dead skin, reproduce and die in the same place where you sleep. Their residue can trigger allergy and even lower your immune system. The only way to keep dust mites at bay is by washing your sheets frequently. Aside from these bugs, your bed may also contain dead skin cells, body fluids, sweat and oils. This is not exactly the place where you want to snuggle in and have some rest, isn’t it?  If you want to preserve your cosy and comfy bed clean, you need to take care of your sheets regularly.

1.    Pillows
If you use protectors under your pillowcases, you need to wash the pillows three times a year. Cleaning the pillow protectors every month with mild laundry detergent is essential. The dirt and the oil from your hair and face can soak into the fibres and even get into the filling of a pillow. If you don’t use protectors, you need to wash the pillows every other month. Most washing machines can fit two pillows at a time.

2.    Sheets and Pillowcases
When it comes to cleaning the sheets and pillowcases, it’s entirely up to your own preferences. Some people love the feel of fresh sheets every week. Others like to the toss the sheets in the washing machine every other week. The bottom line is to do it frequently to prevent the build –up of sweat, dirt and grease in the fabrics. Don’t forget to check for stains and treat them right away. Avoid washing the sheets with hot water because they may shrink. Warm water is enough to get them clean without the risk of shrinking.

3.    Blankets
To determine how often to wash the blankets, you should take into account the frequency of usage. If your blanket serves only a decorative purpose, it should be washed every few months. If you cuddle in your softy covering daily, then you should schedule for weekly or biweekly washing. Follow the instructions on the label of the blanket. Before you put it in the washing machine, see if it isn’t colourfast. If you have any concerns, wash the blanket in a separate load.

4.    Comforters and Duvet Covers
Protect the comforter from stains and soiling by using a cover. In this case you will need to wash the duvet twice a year.  The cover, though, should be cleaned weekly.  If you use top sheet, you can stretch the period up to 2 to 3 weeks. Comforters without a cover should be laundered every week and whenever spills and stains occur. If your machine is not suitable for the heavy and large duvet, you will need to wash it at a launderette.

5.    Mattress Covers
There are many benefits to using mattress cover – from prolonging the life of your mattress to preventing allergies. You will need to remove and wash them monthly or in case of stains.

6.    Mattress
The mattress is dust mites’ favourite place. The warm and shady environment is perfect for mould infestation. To prevent the development of these pests, you need to clean the mattress twice a year or better yet, at the beginning of every season.

7.    Bed Skirts, Canopies and Curtains
You should not dismiss the extra bedding options. Canopies, bed skirts and curtains don’t get dirty very often.  Cleaning these items every 2-3 month is enough.