MOST PEOPLE think their sheets and pillowcases are like best friends who just moved across the country. They believe keeping a low-maintenance friendship is sustainable.
For friendships, definitely.
For sheets and pillowcases, it’s a big no-no.
The Truth
Here’s the deal: your bed sheets should be changed every week or every two weeks. If you have any kind of allergies or illnesses (e.g., asthma), you’re better off being safe by changing them on weekly basis.
Pillowcases, on the other hand, even require higher maintenance than you think! Consider washing them daily (especially for oily or acne-prone skin) or every two to three days.
What? Why?!
After a long day of work, you come home and lay down for a bit. All your bodily oils stick to the sheets. If you have kids, they certainly have jumped on the bed at one point. Or maybe your dog casually hangs out on it too. At this rate, more dead skin cells are being shed. Hair strands on the sheets. THEN YOU FINALLY SLEEP. That was just one night. Can you just imagine how much bacteria have accumulated on your bed?
If you end up not washing your sheets after a month or so, that’s already 28 days of bacteria growth from cosmetics, oils, and even your late-night snacking. You don’t need a study to tell you how dirty your sheets are anymore. Dust mites and other allergens will creep their way into your bed in no time.
So now’s the time to put an end to this bacteria party.
A few tips when washing your sheets and pillowcases:
- Before any washing happens, pay attention to your sheets’ and pillowcases’ washing instructions. Some types of cloth require more TLC than others.
- Watch out for any stains. If you wear make-up often, investing in a stain remover may be helpful.
- Choose a low to medium heat setting on your washing machine to avoid shrinking.
- Ensure your bed sheets are turned inside out – especially if they’re coloured. Roll them into a ball. Place inside the washing machine.
- Use a trusted detergent – preferably a mild one. Tough ones tend to weaken the fibres of your sheets.
- For softer and more fragrant sheets, we recommend using a fabric conditioner.
- Hang the sheets/pillowcases and leave them to air-dry.
That’s not everything yet!
Taking a shower before going to bed helps minimize the growth of bacteria. Keeping your family and friends away from your bed if they’re dirty could help you out, too.
High-quality sheets and pillowcases are a plus. Imagine just using one or two, and then having to wash them every so often? They’ll wear out easily. Keep a few in stock – it’s a good investment! (What do you think about these dashing bamboo sheets and silk pillowcases?)
Think you’re well-versed in Sheets Cleaning 101 already?
Alright! We know you’re itching to do some washing.