How often should you wash bedsheets?
Changing beds is a big job, especially if you have bunk beds to contend with. So how often is it really necessary to wash bedsheets? I asked Thomas Høegh Reisenhus, TEMPUR® sleep specialist & sleep counsellor, for his advice.
“Your bed sheets should be washed once a week, although if you allow pets on your bed, you’re also contending with animal fur, dander and any dirt they bring in, so it’s recommended to change to fresh sheets every 3-4 days.”
Dr Snieguole Geige, Dermatologist at itsmeandyou.co.uk, added, “During sleep, we shed skin cells, sweat, and other bodily fluids onto our sheets. These create an environment conducive to dust mites and bacteria. Regular washing helps eliminate these allergens and pathogens, promoting better sleep hygiene and reducing the risk of allergies. I often advise my patients with allergies or asthma to wash their bedding even more frequently.”
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How often should you wash a duvet?
Mumsnet users take a wide range of approaches to this question, including Cookerhood, who has summer and winter duvets. Washing them at the end of each season, she says, “The winter ones are too big for the machine so they go to the dry cleaners. The summer ones are dried on the line to start with & finished in the dryer.”
However, plenty of Mumsnetters admit to never washing their duvets - with the size of the average washing machine being the main reason. “Never. I air them every now and again,” says Aslanplustwo, “and if they really needed cleaning I would take them to the dry cleaners (washing machine too small).”
So, how often should you actually wash a duvet, and is airing it out enough?
“We spend a lot of time in our beds and over the months our duvets can accumulate sweat, dust and dead skin cells, making it a breeding ground for bacteria.” Says Rebecca Swain, mattress expert at WinstonsBeds.com. “The good news is washing your duvet doesn’t need to be done too often. In fact, if you’re someone who changes their duvet when summer comes around, you could get away with washing it just once throughout the year. Those who sleep with the same duvet all year round will want to wash theirs at least two to three times to ensure it stays clean throughout the year.”
How often should you wash towels?
“Towels, particularly those used for bathing, should be washed after every three to four uses.” Dr Snieguole recommends. “Damp towels are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Allowing them to air dry completely between uses can help, but regular washing is still essential to maintain hygiene.”
There’s one exception to this rule, according to Dr Snieguole. “Hand towels used in restrooms should ideally be washed daily, especially in shared spaces.”
How often should you wash bras?
Bras are a slightly more complex matter than other clothing. While pants and socks need washing after every wear, bras can go longer. However, their delicate fabrics and elastic need a bit of extra care.
As a general rule, bras should be washed every three wears to ensure the cleanliness of your garments, without over washing and compromising the integrity of your items.” recommends Emma Woodrow, in-house bra expert and lingerie buyer at Pour Moi. “Over washing your bras can damage the fabric and weaken the elastic that helps to hold everything in place, particularly if you are guilty of throwing them into the washing machine and tumble drier. Hand-washing is our recommended way to keep your favourite pieces of underwear in perfect condition for as long as possible.”
It’s also best to wear bras on rotation (although we all have our favourites!). Oriona Robb explains why:
“Your bras need a little rest and relaxation just like you do! Wearing the same one two days in a row is like making your bestie run a marathon with no water break - simply cruel. Give them a rest day between wears so the elastic can recover, keeping them comfy and supportive for the long haul. Trust me, a well-rested bra is a happy bra!”
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