How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets? – Probably more than you think

08/18/2024

Ben Trapskin

I have carefully studied and evaluated many mattresses, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, comforters, sleep gadgets, and adjustable beds for over a deca... Full Bio

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It’s a question as old as domestication itself – just how often should we be washing our bed sheets? Despite our best efforts to maintain a clean and healthy living environment, few of us can confidently answer that question. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of sheet washing, answering crucial questions surrounding the ‘when,’ ‘why,’ and ‘how.

The Science of Sleep Hygiene

We spend approximately one-third of our lives asleep, nestled between our sheets. Over time, these sheets collect a vast array of substances – from dead skin cells and sweat to makeup, food, pet dander, and various indoor pollutants. These factors, combined with the warmth and moisture created by our bodies, create a hospitable environment for dust mites, bacteria, fungi, and other allergens. This can have negative impacts on our sleep quality and overall health, underscoring the importance of regular sheet washing.

Frequency: The General Rule of Thumb

While there’s no universal law dictating how often sheets should be laundered, most health and cleaning experts agree on a general rule of thumb: wash your sheets once a week. The American Cleaning Institute, for example, recommends weekly washing to keep sheets fresh and clean.

However, personal lifestyle factors can influence the frequency. If you sweat heavily at night, have been sick, share your bed with a pet, eat in bed, or don’t shower before bed, you may want to increase the washing frequency to twice a week. Conversely, if you sleep in your bed infrequently (like when you’re traveling often), you may stretch the interval slightly longer than a week.

Washing Recommendations: Doing it Right

While frequency is a key factor, it’s equally important to wash your sheets correctly to ensure they’re genuinely clean. Here’s a step-by-step process:

Check the Label: Most bed linens can be machine washed, but some may have specific care instructions. Always check the label first.
Separate Your Sheets: Wash your sheets separately from other clothing items. This prevents damage from zippers and buttons and allows more room for the sheets to circulate.
Choose the Right Detergent: Opt for a high-quality detergent that’s tough on dirt but gentle on fabrics. For those with sensitive skin, consider hypoallergenic options.
Set the Correct Temperature: Most sheets can be washed in warm water, but check the care label to be sure. Using hot water (around 60 degrees Celsius or 140 degrees Fahrenheit) can kill dust mites.
Dry Thoroughly: Ensure your sheets are completely dry before storing them to prevent mold and mildew. Air drying is best, but if you’re using a dryer, choose a low heat setting and remove them promptly to avoid wrinkles.

Balancing Cleanliness with Sustainability

While it’s essential to keep sheets clean for health reasons, we must also consider environmental impact. Washing sheets uses water and energy and contributes to wear and tear on both the linens and the washing machine. To balance cleanliness with sustainability:

Invest in Two Sets of Sheets: This allows you to change your sheets while waiting for a full laundry load, reducing water waste.
Maximize Load Size: Don’t run your washer unless it’s full. This maximizes efficiency and minimizes energy and water usage.
Use Eco-Friendly Detergents: These products are designed to minimize environmental impact.

Regular sheet washing isn’t just a matter of aesthetic appeal—it’s a vital part of sleep hygiene that can impact our health and wellbeing. By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can rest easy knowing you’re protecting

Frequently Asked Questions about Sheet Washing

Q1: How often should I wash my bed sheets? A: As a general rule, bed sheets should be washed once a week. However, this can vary based on lifestyle factors such as night sweats, eating in bed, or sharing the bed with a pet.

Q2: How do I wash my sheets correctly? A: To wash your sheets correctly, check the care label, wash them separately, use a quality detergent, set the right temperature, and ensure they’re thoroughly dried before storing.

Q3: Can I wash my sheets in cold water? A: While most sheets can be washed in warm water, using hot water can effectively kill dust mites. Always check the care label for the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Q4: What happens if I don’t wash my sheets regularly? A: Over time, sheets accumulate sweat, skin cells, oils, and allergens. These can disrupt your sleep and potentially cause skin irritations and allergies.

Q5: How can I balance sheet cleanliness with environmental sustainability? A: You can balance cleanliness with sustainability by investing in two sets of sheets, maximizing load size when washing, and using eco-friendly detergents.

Q6: Can I wash all types of bed sheets the same way? A: Not necessarily. Different fabric types may require different care. Always check the label on your sheets for specific washing instructions.

Q7: How should I dry my bed sheets? A: Sheets should be thoroughly dried before storage to prevent mildew. Air drying is best, but if using a dryer, choose a low heat setting and remove promptly to avoid wrinkles.

The Impact of Sheet Washing on Sleep Quality

Regular sheet washing holds significant implications for the quality of our sleep. There are several key ways that this seemingly mundane task can make a tangible difference to your nightly slumber:

Allergen Reduction

Firstly, frequent washing helps reduce allergens such as dust mites and pet dander, which can trigger allergies and asthma, leading to disrupted sleep. Dust mites, in particular, thrive in the warm, moist environment of a bed and feed off dead skin cells – both of which are minimized by washing your sheets regularly. For those with existing allergies, this can be a significant factor in improving sleep quality.

Skin Health and Comfort

Your skin’s health is another aspect influenced by clean sheets. Over time, sweat, oil, and dead skin cells accumulate on your sheets. This can lead to skin irritations, acne, and other skin issues, which can negatively impact your comfort during sleep. Regular sheet washing helps maintain a clean sleep environment, leading to fewer disruptions and a more restful night’s sleep.

Psychological Benefits

The benefits of clean sheets extend beyond the physical. Research has shown that clean sheets can have psychological benefits, contributing to a sense of wellbeing and relaxation. A National Sleep Foundation poll found that around 73% of people sleep better on fresh sheets. The act of sleeping on clean, fresh-smelling sheets can promote feelings of relaxation and cleanliness, making it easier to fall asleep and improving the overall quality of sleep.

Hygiene and Infection Control

If you’ve been ill, washing your sheets can remove germs and stop them from spreading, helping you to recover faster and ensuring you get the sleep you need to fight off infection.

Temperature Regulation

Clean sheets can also aid in temperature regulation, particularly if your sheets are made of a breathable fabric like cotton. Accumulated sweat and oils can impact the breathability of your sheets, making you warmer during sleep. Regular washing ensures your sheets can perform their moisture-wicking function effectively, providing a cooler and more comfortable sleep environment.

In sum, while it may seem like a chore, washing your sheets regularly is a simple way to create a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable sleep environment. By improving air quality, skin comfort, mental relaxation, and overall hygiene, clean sheets contribute significantly to a good night’s sleep.

The Best Laundry Detergents for Washing Sheets

Choosing the right detergent can make a world of difference when it comes to laundering your bed linens. Here are some of the top laundry detergents ideal for washing sheets based on efficiency, gentleness on fabrics, and environmental impact:

Tide Original Liquid Laundry Detergent: An industry staple, Tide’s original formula remains a favorite for its powerful cleaning capabilities. Its concentrated formula means you use less per load, and it’s effective at various water temperatures.
Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent: For those with sensitive skin or allergies, the Seventh Generation Free & Clear detergent is an excellent option. This eco-friendly, hypoallergenic formula is free from dyes, fragrances, and artificial brighteners, reducing the risk of skin irritations.
Arm & Hammer Clean Burst Liquid Laundry Detergent: Noted for its baking soda content, Arm & Hammer’s detergent offers a one-two punch of cleaning and deodorizing. This product is particularly good at getting rid of sweat and body oil stains, making it a good choice for bed linens.
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Laundry Detergent: With its plant-derived cleaning ingredients, this detergent is known for its natural and biodegradable formula. Its soft and long-lasting scents are an added bonus that can lend a fresh, clean feel to your sheets.
Persil ProClean Liquid Laundry Detergent: Known for its stain-fighting power, Persil ProClean detergent can tackle even the toughest grime on your sheets. While it’s slightly pricier than other brands, its high efficiency makes it a worthwhile investment.
Charlie’s Soap Laundry Powder: For those who prefer a powder detergent, Charlie’s Soap is a top-rated choice. It’s hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and septic safe, making it kind to both your sheets and the environment.

Remember, the best detergent for your sheets depends on your personal needs, including skin sensitivity, environmental considerations, and the specific care instructions of your linens. It’s recommended to start with the manufacturer’s instructions on your sheets and consider a patch test if you’re trying a new detergent and have sensitive skin.

Factor	Recommended Washing Frequency	Notes
General Rule	Once a week	This is a good starting point for most people.
Personal Factors
– Sweat a lot while sleeping	More often (2-3 times a week)	Hot flashes, exercise before bed, etc.
– Sleep naked	More often (2-3 times a week)	More skin contact with sheets.
– Have pets that sleep in bed	More often (1-2 times a week)	Pet dander and fur can accumulate.
– Have allergies or asthma	More often (2-3 times a week)	Dust mites can trigger symptoms.
– Live in a hot climate	More often (2-3 times a week)	Increased sweating and dust accumulation.
– Recover from illness	More often (after each illness)	Prevent spreading germs.
Bedding Type
– Top sheet	Less often (monthly)	Protects fitted sheet from most dirt.
– Duvet/comforter	Less often (2-3 times a year)	Bulky and can be time-consuming to wash.
– Mattress pad	Less often (3-4 months)	Protects mattress, but less exposed to dirt.

Laundry Detergents Best for Bedding:

Feature	Product Name	Pros	Cons	Price	Where to Buy
Overall Best	The Laundress Signature Detergent	– Deep cleans and softens	– More expensive	$26/32 fl oz	thelaundress.com
Best Eco-Friendly	Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Eco Sheets	– Biodegradable, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic	– Less effective on tough stains	$16/40 sheets	amazon.com
Best Gentle	Dropps Sensitive Skin & Baby Detergent	– Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, plant-based	– Limited stain-fighting power	$16/64 fl oz	dropps.com
Best for Odors	Persil ProClean Laundry Detergent Power Liquid	– Strong stain and odor removal	– Strong fragrance	$13/100 fl oz	walmart.com
Best Budget-Friendly	Gain Original Liquid Laundry Detergent	– Affordable, pleasant scent	– May not be effective on heavy stains	$18/64 fl oz	amazon.com
Best for Sheets & Towels	Heritage Park All-Purpose Laundry Detergent	– Gentle yet effective, fragrance-free	– Limited availability	$25/32 fl oz	heritagepark.com
Best for Sensitive Skin	Biokleen Free & Clear Laundry Detergent	– Plant-based, fragrance-free, non-toxic	– Can be slightly more expensive	$20/64 fl oz	biokleen.com
Best for Luxury Fabrics	LeBlanc Linen Wash	– Specially formulated for delicates	– Very expensive	$40/32 fl oz	<invalid URL removed>

Additional Notes:

- This table is not exhaustive and there are many other great laundry detergents on the market.

- The best detergent for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as your budget, skin sensitivity, environmental concerns, and the type of bedding you have.