Sleep experts say we should be washing bed sheets more than we think

Daily Record

20-05-2025

Many individuals put off washing their bed sheets, as they take up a lot of space in the washing machine and often require higher wash temperatures than other fabrics. However, with each use, bedding accumulates dead skin and dirt that may not be immediately visible.
Given that the average person spends nearly a third of their life sleeping, regular washing is crucial for maintaining good sleep hygiene. Experts at the Sleep Foundation suggest that most people do not wash their sheets frequently enough.
They state: "Even after a few days, bed sheets can accumulate significant amounts of dirt, dead skin cells, body oils, sweat, and dust mites - including their carcasses and faecal matter."
Dust mites multiply rapidly, feeding exclusively on dead skin cells. Tens of thousands of dust mites can inhabit your mattress and bedding at any given time, and washing sheets regularly is the most effective way to eliminate them.
The Sleep Foundation recommends that people wash their sheets at least once per week. However, this may need to be increased based on other factors: "Those who share their bed with a pet should clean their sheets every three to four days", urged the sleep experts, reports the Express.
Moreover, individuals who experience allergies or night sweats should wash their sheets more frequently. Cleaning enthusiast and author of Live, Laugh, Laundry, Laura Mountford (@Lauracleanaholic) has revealed that hot weather means bedding will become dirtier more quickly.
She recommends washing pillowcases, duvet covers and sheets twice weekly during the summertime. Laura remarks that, contrary to what many believe, this task is easier than expected due to the efficacy of modern detergents; high-temperature washes are no longer necessary.
She asserts that with high-quality detergents, you can achieve a thorough clean even on cool cycles as low as 20 degrees. If you're still sceptical about washing at such low temperatures, adding a laundry cleanser can help kill bacteria and viruses.
While in-wash scent boosters may extend the freshness of laundry, many professionals concur that air-drying your bedding is equally effective and chemical-free.
Lenor's team of laundry experts further explains that line-dried linens acquire a distinctive fragrance from the photochemical reaction that occurs as solar rays meet wet fabric. They stated: "Hung outside, the ultraviolet light from the sun kills bacteria effectively in your laundry."
How to wash bed sheets
No matter the frequency of washing, it's crucial to always consult and adhere to the care instructions found on the label.
Generally, bedding should be washed in warm water, avoiding hot water, which can damage delicate fabrics.
Use a sheets or normal cycle on your washing machine, and consider a gentle cycle for delicate fabrics like silk or bamboo.
Avoid overloading the washer, and wash sheets separately or with similar fabrics to ensure proper cleaning and hygiene.