Your bedsheets may look clean and fresh, but they can harbor a lot of dirt, sweat, bacteria and dead skin cells that you shed every night. That’s why it’s important to change your sheets regularly to maintain good hygiene and comfort.
But how often should you change your sheets? The answer may depend on several factors, such as the season, your personal habits and preferences, and whether you have any allergies or skin conditions. However, most experts agree that you should change your sheets at least once a week.
Why Once a Week?
Changing your sheets once a week can help prevent the buildup of dust mites, allergens and germs that can cause health problems such as asthma, eczema and infections. It can also keep your sheets smelling fresh and feeling soft.
One interiors expert says: “The frequency you should change your sheets depends partly on the time of year. As a general rule of thumb it’s best to change your sheets once a week for good bedroom hygiene.”
Some people may need to change their sheets more often than once a week if they:
- sweat a lot at night
- have pets that sleep on the bed
- eat or drink in bed
- wear makeup or lotions to bed
- have a cold or flu
- have sensitive skin or allergies
In these cases, changing your sheets every three or four days may be advisable.
How to Keep Your Sheets Clean Between Washes
You can keep your sheets clean between washes and help preserve them by:
- showering before bed
- avoiding naps after a sweaty gym session
- removing makeup before you go to sleep
- avoiding putting on lotions, creams or oils right before bed
- not eating or drinking in bed
- keeping your pets off your bed
- airing out your bed in the morning by pulling back the covers
How to Wash Your Sheets Properly
When you wash your sheets, make sure you follow these tips:
- Use hot water (at least 60°C) to kill dust mites and bacteria.
- Use mild detergent and avoid bleach or fabric softener that can damage the fibers.
- Wash white sheets separately from colored ones to prevent fading or staining.
- Dry your sheets thoroughly in a dryer or on a clothesline before folding them.
- Store your sheets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Changing your bedsheets regularly is not only good for your health but also for your mood. Nothing beats crawling into a fresh and cozy bed at night. So make it a habit to change your sheets once a week (or more often if needed) and enjoy the benefits of clean bedding.