How often do you wash your bed sheets? If it’s less than once a week, you might want to rethink your routine. Experts recommend washing your sheets weekly to keep them fresh and hygienic.
Think about it—every week, you spend around 49 hours in bed, shedding sweat, dead skin cells, and dirt. Over time, this creates the perfect environment for bacteria, dust mites, and even fungi.
People produce about 26 gallons of sweat in bed each year! A weekly cleaning schedule helps you stay ahead of these issues, ensuring your bed remains a clean and comfortable place to rest.
Types of Bed Sheets by Style
Sheets come in many different materials and styles. Different types and styles of sheets serve different purposes and can completely change the look and feel of your bed. But they all should be cleaned about the same.
1. Flat Sheet
A rectangular sheet that lies directly on top of the fitted sheet, underneath blankets or duvets. Adds an extra layer of comfort and protects your blankets from dirt and oils. Common in the U.S., but less so in Europe and other regions.
2. Fitted Sheet
A sheet with elasticated corners that fits snugly over your mattress. Keeps your mattress protected and provides a smooth surface to sleep on. Elastic edges ensure it stays in place all night.
Check the difference between a flat sheet and fitted sheet.
3. Duvet Cover
A removable cover for your duvet or comforter, often with button or tie closures. Protects your duvet and makes it easy to change the look of your bedding. Typically used with a duvet insert, which can be swapped out seasonally.
4. Bed Skirt (or Dust Ruffle)
A decorative piece that hangs between the mattress and the box spring, covering the bed frame. Hides the bed frame and adds a polished look to your bedding. Often used in traditional or formal bedroom decor.
Factors That Influence How Often You Should Wash Your Sheets
Washing your sheets isn’t just about keeping them fresh, it’s also about health, comfort, and creating a good sleeping environment. But how often should you wash your sheets? That depends on your habits, health conditions, and even where you live. Here are the details:
Night sweats or oily skin
Do you wake up sweating or notice oily stains on your pillow? Sweat and body oils can seep into your sheets, providing a breeding ground for bacteria and dust mites. If this happens to you, wash your sheets weekly or more often to keep your bed clean and avoid skin irritation.
Sleeping with pets
Pets bring extra dirt, hair, and allergens into your bed. To keep your sheets fresh, wash them weekly if you share your bed with a pet.
Eating or drinking in your bed
Crumbs and spills can make your sheets a mess and attract bacteria and pests. If you like to eat before bed, wash your sheets more often to avoid stains, odors, and unwanted guests.
Allergies or Asthma
Dust mites and allergens love unwashed sheets and can trigger sneezes, coughs, and even asthma attacks. If you have allergies or asthma, wash your sheets weekly to reduce symptoms and breathe easier.
Skin Problems (Acne, Eczema, etc.)
Dirty sheets can irritate sensitive skin, clog pores, or worsen conditions like acne or eczema. Washing your sheets regularly removes bacteria and oils, helping your skin stay clean and calm.
Humid Climates
Moisture can make your sheets damp and promote the growth of mold and bacteria. In humid climates, wash your sheets weekly to keep your bed fresh and dry.
Seasonal Changes
In the summer, you may sweat more, so wash your sheets weekly. In the cooler months, you can wash them every two weeks—unless you spend more time in bed.
What Happens If You Don’t Wash Your Sheets Regularly?
Occasionally, not washing your sheets may not seem like a big deal, but making it a habit can lead to some unpleasant consequences. Dirty sheets can become a hotspot for health problems that you definitely want to avoid.
The skin on your face tends to be more sensitive than the skin on your body, and if your sheets go too long without being washed, they can accumulate dirt, dead skin cells (which dust mites feast on), dust mites, and even mold. It’s easy to trigger redness and itchiness when your face touches the sheets; I’ve tried it. Don’t want to go through it again.
While serious consequences are rare, it’s best to err on the side of caution. As experts point out, regular washing can eliminate allergens, bacteria, and irritants, creating a healthier sleeping environment and improving your overall well-being.
Practical Tips For Maintaining Clean Bedding
Keeping your bedding clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With a few simple steps, you can maintain a fresh and healthy sleep environment. Let’s dive into some practical tips to make your bedding care routine easier and more effective.
Pre-washing care
The detergent you choose plays a big role in keeping your sheets clean and in good condition. Opt for detergents that match the fabric type of your bedding. For example, delicate fabrics like silk or linen may require gentler formulas, while cotton sheets can handle stronger detergents. If hygiene is a top priority, consider using chlorine bleach for its antimicrobial properties, but always check if your sheets can tolerate it.
Check care labels for fabric-specific instructions
Care labels are your best friend when it comes to washing bedding. They provide essential guidelines to help you avoid damaging your sheets. Look for symbols that indicate the recommended water temperature, drying method, and whether bleach is safe to use. Following these instructions ensures your bedding stays soft, vibrant, and durable.
Tip: Wash at a minimum of 160°F (71°C) for at least 25 minutes to effectively kill microorganisms.
Ideal water temperature for different materials
Not all fabrics are created equal, so the water temperature matters. Hot water (above 130°F) works best for killing bacteria and dust mites, especially for cotton sheets. For more delicate materials, warm water (71°F–77°F) paired with oxygen-based detergents can clean effectively without causing damage.
Using hypoallergenic or fragrance-free detergents
If you have sensitive skin or allergies, hypoallergenic or fragrance-free detergents are a great choice. These options minimize irritation while still providing a thorough clean. They’re especially helpful for families with young children or anyone prone to skin conditions like eczema.
FAQ
How Often Should You Wash Pillowcases Compared to Bed Sheets?
Pillowcases need washing more often than sheets—ideally every 3-4 days. They come into direct contact with your face, absorbing oils, sweat, and bacteria. Also, you can change your pillowcase regularly to keep them clean. This helps prevent skin issues like acne and ensures a fresher sleeping experience.
Can You Wash Sheets With Other Laundry Items?
It’s better to wash sheets separately. Mixing them with clothes or towels can cause uneven cleaning and damage delicate fabrics. Plus, sheets need more space to move freely in the washer for a thorough cleaning.
What’s the Best Way to Remove Stains From Bed Sheets?
Treat sheet stains including blood stains! Use a stain remover or a mix of baking soda and water. Gently rub the area, then wash the sheets in warm water. For stubborn stains, soak them in a solution of oxygen-based cleaner before washing.
Is it Okay to Skip Washing Sheets If They Don’t Look Dirty?
Even if sheets look clean, they collect sweat, skin cells, and bacteria. Skipping washes can lead to odors, allergens, and skin irritation. Stick to a weekly washing routine to maintain hygiene and comfort.
How Can You Keep Sheets Smelling Fresh Between Washes?
Spritz your sheets with a fabric refresher or essential oil spray. Let your bed air out each morning by pulling back the covers. Using mattress and pillow protectors also helps keep odors at bay.