How Often You Really Need to Wash Your Sheets and Other Bedding
Also in our blog we will tell you the best way to clean sheets, mattresses, blankets and other bedding
Now we'll give you a mini quiz: What do mucous membrane cells and dust mites, which are not visible to the outside eye, have in common? The answer is simple enough: over time, all of these microorganisms accumulate in your laundry. So, the bacteria that we fight are essentially germs that accumulate in our bodies. As time passes, such bacteria will inevitably cause a variety of skin diseases, from shingles to acne to eczema.
There are a lot of different types of soiling on bedding. It can be saliva, sweat, fecal residue (pardon the detail), and food crumbs. The amount and composition of these contaminants depends on who you live with, what kind of family you have. If you have a large family: partner, children, pets, such residues can be quite large. There have been various studies on this topic. For example, as an experiment was taken a sheet that no one washed for 4 weeks. Such a sheet turned out to be dirtier than a toothbrush holder. In addition, a pillowcase that had also not been washed for 4 weeks was compared. It was dirtier than a pet bowl. I think it's worth agreeing, it's not a good idea for where you sleep and rest.
But don't feel bad, we also have great news for you: simply wringing your laundry in the washing machine can help you get rid of mites, dust particles, sweat residue and other microorganisms. Don't be alarmed, it's not that bad! For the most part, all of these residues are not that harmful, so we don't recommend washing your sheets and pillowcases too often. Do it no more than once a week, that would be optimal!
How do I clean my bedding? Instructions on how to handle it are usually included with each item or set. However, don't feel bad if you don't have one. We will be sure to tell you how to do so according to the composition of the linens. Next, we'll tell you how sheets, blankets, and pillows should be washed, how often it should be done, and even how to clean the headboard of the bed.
However, there are exceptions when it would be prudent to wash your bedding much more frequently. Such would be relevant if:
You sweat often and a lot
You have allergies or overreact to dust.
You are used to sleeping naked.
Your pet likes to share your bed with you
Once a Week: Wash Your Bed Sheets, Duvet Covers, and Pillowcases
Take into account the fact that it is advisable to wash the items with which your body comes into contact in bed no more than once a week in the washing machine at the appropriate temperature. This includes pillowcases, sheets, and sometimes even a duvet cover. The top sheet requires weekly washing. But the duvet cover will be enough to wash once every two or three weeks, you should not do it more often. This is because the top sheet is a kind of barrier between your body and the duvet cover.
The choice of detergent should be made depending on the temperature of the water. It is worth remembering that for washing in cool water, it is best to choose a liquid detergent, because loose powders do not dissolve well in cold water.
A good recommendation for drying sheets is not to just toss them from the washer to the dryer. They should be shaken well to dry evenly. Low temperatures should be used when drying them to prevent them from wearing out.
If you follow this recommendation, your cotton linens will last you at least 2-3 years before you need to replace them. An important and interesting point is that the number of threads that make up your linen does not affect its lifespan.
Every 3 Months: Wash Your Duvet Interior, Comforters, and Blankets
There is expert opinion from individuals who have extensive experience in housekeeping. They suggest that it is imperative to pull the pillows out of the cover and wash the covers the same way they wash the pillows. We recommend doing this every three months. This washing is best done in front-loading machines. This is due to the fact that the covers and duvet covers are often wrapped around the center turbine, and therefore poorly cleaned. In case the duvet cover contains down filling, it's worth checking that you wash it in cold water and using water with a detergent that won't damage the feather filling.
In addition, blankets and pillows that are purely decorative, as well as any room decorating covers, can be cleaned only once a year.
Put Your Pillow In the Wash Once Every 3 to 6 Months
It is very important to remember that pillows are where you put your head. Therefore, it is extremely important to keep them clean. Do you think if we knew what was really in the pillows, would you want to use them?
A standard pillowcase can provide a small barrier between your face and the pillow. However, there are special protectors that provide more protection. Household expert Maferson gives us the recommendation to use an extra cover for the pillow, and only then put it in the main cover. So what are pillow protectors for, you ask? They are needed to extend the life of a pillow. They also protect pillows from additional allergens, mites, and other microorganisms. Finally, these protectors are great for protecting pillows between washings.
When you do not use a pillow protector, we strongly recommend that you wash your pillow at least every 3 to 4 months. But what about when you have a protective protector? Then the protector should be cleaned once a month. But a pillow will be enough to be washed every 4-6 months. An important recommendation - before you wash your pillow, check the recommendations on the label. For example, there are foam pillows and they should not be washed. They need to be dried in the sun.
How should you wash your pillow? It is recommended to use cold water for this purpose. It is also a good idea to check the label of your detergent to make sure it is safe for feathers. You may need an extra drain and spin cycle. This may be necessary if you want to remove the water from the pillow and only then throw it in the dryer.
Let's discuss drying pillows. Keep in mind that different types of pillows cannot be dried the same way. Some pillows require low temperatures, some require normal room temperature. This information is usually listed on labels. There is an old tried-and-true way to break up the lumps of filler that often form during washing. It is quite normal that pillows will have to be dried several times. This is important because there is a high chance that mold will form on an undried pillow.
Try to stick to this cleaning schedule. Then there's a good chance your main pillow will last six months to a year. And only after that, you may need to replace it.
Every 6 Months: Vacuum Your Mattress
In addition, household experts recommend that you don't skimp and invest in mattress protection. This will allow your mattress to last for a very long time. So, if you have a small child or a pet at home that could inadvertently ruin your mattress irretrievably, you will have excellent protection. It's also a great way to protect your mattress from dust and allergens.
Your mattress cover should be cleaned on a regular basis every 2 months. However, there are exceptions. If you get very sick or if you spill something, you should wash the protector right away. But having a protector in place does not release you from the obligation to vacuum your mattress at regular intervals, but at least every 6 months.
How is it recommended to clean your mattress? After the sheets and all protective covers have been removed, it is recommended that you use a vacuum cleaner. It is recommended to vacuum your mattress using what is called an "overlapping" motion. Next, there is a recommendation for you, which you may be surprised - sprinkle your mattress with the most common baking soda. Then wait about 10 minutes, and then thoroughly vacuum the mattress again.
If you stick to the cleaning schedule, you will definitely extend the life of your mattress. The most common standard mattress will last you at least 10 years before it may need to be replaced.
P.S. If you spill something or get it dirty, then you need to spot-clean your mattress immediately, otherwise you will ruin it completely.
In the case of a stain on the mattress, it is worth using a special towel that absorbs moisture well. There is an option to use a cotton or paper version. The most important thing is to blot immediately the place where the liquid spilled in order not to ruin the mattress for the whole life.
There are great ways to treat stains. Use a simple solution of water and vinegar. The ideal ratio for such a solution is 1:1. So, the soiled area should be sprayed until completely saturated, and then pour plain baking soda on top. Such an additive will eliminate any extraneous odors. Next, the treated area should be given time to dry. Then such an area should be treated with a vacuum cleaner. There are more difficult stains, such as blood stains. More complicated steps may be necessary here, such as using a carpet cleaner with an upholstery-safe solution.
Make It a Habit: Vacuuming the Bed Skirt and Headboard
Often these areas are overlooked altogether. However, the headboard needs to be cared for and cleaned on a mandatory basis. There is a method for a fabric headboard - put a pillow between your head and the headboard. This will keep oil and grease from your hair from staining the headboard. You may have pets that dirty the bed skirt because they like to climb under the bed, rub against it, and even play with the bed skirt. This is bound to cause the bed skirt to collect hair and dander from the pet. This is why it must be cleaned, because additional allergens pollute the air and cause the air in the apartment to become stale.
It's not as hard as it looks. Just whenever you pick up a vacuum cleaner, you need to run it over the bed skirt. Don't forget the headboard! This will go a long way toward getting rid of dust and, mites and other germs.
How should I clean my bed skirt? Before you do this, make sure your vacuum cleaner is on low suction mode. Then, go over the bed skirt with it to collect all of what has accumulated on it. This could be hair, dander, dust, and other germs. If your bed skirt consists of fabric, you should throw it in the wash from time to time for the best cleaning.
How do you suggest cleaning a bed headboard? Assume that your headboard consists of fabric. If so, it is suggested that you vacuum it periodically and spot treat it if there are any stains or if you accidentally drop or spill something on it. A wooden headboard requires less attention. Just wipe the dust off it. However, it is desirable to do it on a regular basis - at least once or twice a week.
Lifestyle Tips for Keeping Your Bedding Clean Between Washes
We can understand you very well if you tell us that washing your linens once a week is very difficult! And there's really nothing wrong with skipping this activity a couple of times. However, there is one very important rule that you will have to follow one way or another if you don't want your pillowcases to serve the development of an infection. If you've had an illness, a skin rash, or even conjunctivitis, you simply need to wash them immediately after your illness. In addition, it is strongly recommended not to share bedding if you are sick. This will inevitably spread the infection and your household members are likely to catch the infection, and you are likely to be cured much later than if you had observed hygiene.
It's great if you don't have any health problems! However, in addition to the rules we told you about, there are a number of daily rules that can easily help you delay cleaning a bit and not think about the fact that somewhere in your bed there are crumbs from chips or pieces of popcorn after watching an interesting show. Now we're going to tell you about them!
The golden rule is no foreign clothing on the bed. Don't let anyone sit on it in jeans, put away your bags and backpacks. Do not lie in your slippers on the bed.
No matter how much you want to eat popcorn to the show - do not do it - then you'll be very long sweeping crumbs from different places and your sleep will become restless.
Make it a rule to shower in the evening and make sure your body lotion is absorbed before you go to rest and go to bed. A very important rule of thumb, and not just for bacterial growth, but for the health of your skin, is to take off your makeup before you go to bed.
If you like to take a nap during the day - it's not a problem if you lie down on decorative pillows and plaids.
In addition to keeping up with regular hygiene, washing your bedding, and taking care of your pillows and mattresses, it is advisable to remember that bedroom clutter plays an important role. If you want to sleep comfortably and peacefully throughout the night, it is recommended that you clean your bedroom regularly. There is very good advice - take a photo of your bedroom and compare the photo when you have order with what you have now and stick to the so-called benchmark.
The Best Sheets to Replace Your Old Set
There are times when you realize that your bedding is not saving. In this case, do not get upset. There are many ways to keep your bedding cool and relieve night sweats. These options are super soft and essentially take the shape of your bed with an adjustable base. Now we're going to tell you what they are:
The Premium Cotton Sateen White bedding set is made of high-quality long-staple cotton. The set is very soft to the touch and has a noble silky sheen. Due to the high density of the fabric, the sheet is very durable, deformation resistant and crease free. Thanks to the hollow fibre structure, the fabric is very hygroscopic and has a good heat retention. The fabric is double mercerized, which makes it like silk: fine, smooth, with a characteristic matt sheen.
The Premium Woven Cotton Sateen Stripe White bedding set is made of the finest long-staple cotton. The fabric has a high yarn count, which results in an increased life span of the sheet and its tactile and visual characteristics. Long cotton fibers make a very durable material which provides the bedclothes high hygienic quality. Natural cotton is hygroscopic, breathable, practical and easy to care for. Thanks to the special density of the fabric, the sheet is resistant to deformation, and will retain its beauty even after repeated washings.
The Royal Jacquard Modal Victoria bedding set is made of silky fiber, produced by the most sophisticated technology of high quality eucalyptus wood. The relief and the unusual texture of the jacquard linen adds refinement and sophistication. The material (cotton + tenzell) combines the softness and smoothness of silk and the tenderness and comfort of cotton. This material is air permeable. Such linen is comfortable to sleep on at any time of year, and in hot weather the touch of it will give a slight coolness.
The Premium Cotton Sateen Neutral bedding set is made of high-quality long-staple cotton. The set is very soft to the touch and has a noble silky sheen. Due to the high density of the fabric, the sheet is very durable, deformation resistant and secure against crumpling. Due to the hollow fibre structure, the fabric is very hygroscopic and has a good heat retention. The fabric undergoes a double mercerization and calendering process, which makes it similar to silk: fine, smooth, with a characteristic matt sheen.
The Premium 100% Modal Natural bedding set is made of natural cotton. Cotton is the most popular textile material. Thanks to the hollow structure of the fibers, it retains heat well and has high hygroscopic properties. A special technology has been used for the production of the sheet fabric, which guarantees perfect quality throughout the entire fabric.