You probably change your bedsheets weekly, or at least, you should. Think about it – every night, you spend several hours in your bed, and during this time, your sheets become a cozy home for dead skin cells, various bodily fluids, and natural skin oils. And it doesn’t stop there; dust, those unwelcome dust mites, and pet hair if you share your space with furry friends, all contribute to the buildup in your bedding.
Regularly washing your sheets is essential to get rid of this unappealing collection of grime. If you prefer to do laundry less frequently, it’s a good idea to have a spare set of sheets on hand so you can maintain a weekly changing schedule.
However, knowing how to wash your sheets is just as critical as how often. Proper washing techniques will not only ensure your sheets are truly clean but also extend their lifespan.
Why a Weekly Wash is Non-Negotiable
The recommendation to wash or change your sheets once a week isn’t just a suggestion; it’s widely accepted advice from experts. This guidance is consistently highlighted across numerous authoritative sources, including the books Laundry by Cheryl Mendelson, Simply Clean by Becky Rapinchuk of Clean Mama, Real Simple Cleaning by Kathleen Squires, Clean My Space by Melissa Maker of Clean My Space, and Laundry Hints & Tips by Cindy Harris. These are all respected voices in the world of homekeeping and cleaning.
In our fast-paced lives, changing sheets weekly might feel like another chore on a long list, easily overlooked. But when you consider that you spend approximately a third of your life in bed, prioritizing clean sheets becomes a worthwhile investment in your health and well-being.
Tackling Stains Before Washing
If you notice any visible stains on your sheets, addressing them before washing is crucial. Using a quality stain remover like Zout is a great first step for common culprits like food spills, dirt, and bodily fluids. Generally, the process involves applying the stain remover to the affected area, gently manipulating the fabric around the stain to help the cleaner penetrate, and then letting it sit as per the product instructions. You can even apply the stain remover as soon as you remove the sheets and leave them in your laundry hamper until wash day.
For more stubborn stains such as blood, coffee, or wine – perhaps from enjoying a relaxing evening in bed – consider soaking the stained area with OxiClean. Allow it to work its magic overnight before placing your sheets in the washing machine. For greasy food stains, dish soap can be surprisingly effective. Apply it to the stain like any other spot remover.
Remember, heat can set stains permanently, particularly in the dryer. Always check pre-treated stains after washing and before drying. If the stain persists, repeat the stain treatment and washing cycle.
Washing with Cooler Temperatures
To keep your sheets looking and feeling their best for longer, washing them in cooler water temperatures is generally recommended – cold water is often ideal. However, there are instances where warmer water is necessary. Warm water is beneficial for lifting tougher stains, such as coffee, as the heat helps to loosen and remove them more effectively. Hot water is recommended for disinfecting bedding, such as after an illness, dealing with accidents during potty training, or eliminating allergens like dust mites.
Cheryl Mendelson, in her book Laundry, wisely advises against choosing sheets with overly complicated care instructions. She emphasizes that “Your everyday sheets, especially those on infants’ and children’s beds, should be easy to launder vigorously and should never require gentle or complicated treatment.” This highlights the practicality of choosing durable and easy-to-care-for bedding.
The Question of Bleach
If you want to use bleach on your sheets to tackle stains or for whitening, it’s best to stick to white sheets. For a brightening boost, consider using color-safe bleach or oxygen bleach on a warmer wash setting. White sheets are also a practical choice if you use acne creams containing benzoyl peroxide, which can cause discoloration. While these types of stains are often permanent, they become virtually invisible on white sheets. This is a key reason why white sheets are often favored in testing for guides to the best sheets, as mentioned in The New York Times Wirecutter guide. Additionally, white sheets eliminate worries about colors fading over time with frequent washing.
A Note About Washing New Sheets
If you or someone in your household has particularly sensitive skin, taking an extra step when washing new sheets is advisable. Some wrinkle-resistant treatments applied to fabrics can contain trace amounts of formaldehyde, which can trigger contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. If you’re concerned about these factory finishes, adding ¼ cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle can help remove some of these substances. However, it’s worth remembering that these finishes are what contribute to wrinkle resistance and shrinkage control, so excessive removal might compromise these benefits.
Steer Clear of Fabric Softeners
Try to minimize or avoid the use of fabric softeners and dryer sheets, especially with every wash. Fabric softeners leave a residue on the fabric that can reduce its breathability and absorbency. Over time, this buildup can lead to you feeling warmer and less comfortable in your sheets.
Drying Sheets the Right Way
Always dry your sheets on the lowest heat setting possible. This simple step will significantly extend their lifespan. To further prevent shrinkage, opt for low or medium heat rather than high heat. Lower temperatures are gentler on the fabric fibers, preventing heat damage that can make sheets feel rough and more prone to tearing. Heat damage can also cause cotton fabrics to shed more lint. It’s far better to dry your sheets for a longer duration on low heat, such as 45 minutes, than to quickly dry them on high heat for just 15 minutes and risk damage. Even if you wash your sheets in hot water, always dry them on a low setting to minimize wear and tear.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your sheets are not only clean and hygienic but also remain comfortable and last longer. Prioritizing regular and correct sheet washing is a simple yet effective way to enhance your sleep environment and overall well-being.
