How Often Should You Wash Your Bed Sheets?

When was the last time you washed your bed sheets? Can’t remember? Today may be the day.

Experts generally recommend washing your sheets once a week, and for good reason. Your bed is where you spend around a third of your life, which means it’s also the perfect spot for dead skin cells, sweat, body oils, and dust mites to settle in.

Gross, right? Regular washing helps keep your sleep space fresh, clean, and free of unwanted germs.

Clean sheets do more than just make your bed look tidy—they can significantly improve your overall well-being. For starters, sleeping on freshly washed sheets can enhance your sleep quality.

The crisp, clean feel of fresh linens creates a more inviting and comfortable sleep environment, helping you relax and fall asleep faster. Clean sheets also play an essential role in maintaining skin health, as they reduce exposure to bacteria and oils that could clog pores and cause breakouts.

Additionally, keeping your bed linen clean helps minimize allergens like dust mites, making it especially beneficial for individuals with allergies or asthma. The simple act of washing your sheets regularly can make a big difference in your health and comfort.

To ensure your sheets are properly cleaned and well-maintained, it’s essential to follow some basic washing techniques. Start by checking the care label on your bedding to determine the appropriate water temperature and washing instructions.

Most sheets can be washed in warm water, which effectively removes dirt and allergens while still being gentle on fabrics. Use a mild detergent to avoid leaving behind harsh residues that could irritate your skin. Avoid overcrowding the washing machine, as this prevents the sheets from being thoroughly cleaned.

For an extra level of cleanliness, consider adding a cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to help eliminate odors and soften the fabric. Once washed, promptly remove the sheets from the machine to avoid excessive wrinkling or mildew growth.

Dry them on a low-heat cycle or line-dry outdoors for a fresh, natural scent. By following these steps, you can ensure your sheets remain fresh, clean, and in great condition.

If a weekly wash feels like too much, consider your lifestyle. Do you sweat a lot at night, sleep with pets, or eat snacks in bed? If so, you might want to stick to the weekly schedule.

If you sleep pretty clean (read: you shower before bed and don’t allow snacks or furry friends into your sheets), you might be able to stretch to every two weeks. But anything longer than that? Nah, your sheets—and your skin—deserve better.

Here’s a tip to make life easier. Keep at least one extra set of sheets on hand, so you can quickly swap them out.

That way, when laundry day rolls around, all you have to do is toss the dirty ones in the wash, and you’re ready to enjoy a clean, cozy bed without any hassle. Trust us, fresh sheets make sleeping that much sweeter.