How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets? : The Hearty Soul

The human body is an incredible machine capable of amazing things, but it also has its downsides. Did you know we shed about 40,000 skin cells and produce 20 grams of body oil every day, with a third of that happening while we sleep? This begs the question, how often do you wash your sheets? The answer varies, but a general rule of thumb is once every two weeks, with weekly washings recommended for those with certain conditions. Make sure to also wash your pillowcases regularly. If you have specific health concerns, you may need to wash your bedding even more frequently.

So, how often should you wash your sheets?

The National Sleep Foundation found that most people change their sheets weekly but don’t always wash them. However, a survey revealed that many individuals wash their sheets far less frequently. It is essential to maintain good hygiene habits in order to prevent parasites and allergens from accumulating in your bedding.

Should I wash my bedding more often?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, you should consider washing your bedding more frequently:

• Do you have allergies or asthma?
• Do you sweat excessively at night?
• Do you have pets that sleep in your bed?
• Do you eat in bed?
• Do you sleep naked?

Regularly washing your sheets can help prevent exposure to bacteria, fungi, and other allergens. It is also recommended to wash your other bedding items regularly and practice good hygiene habits before bed.

Best washing practices

Follow the washing instructions on your bedding labels and use hot water for proper sanitation. Ironing your sheets post-wash can also be beneficial. Maintaining clean bedding can help prevent unwanted pests and skin irritations.

Other best practices include

• Clean your body before bed
• Remove makeup before bed
• Avoid scented lotions before bed
• Avoid eating in bed
• Keep pets out of your bed

Effort put into maintaining clean bedding has significant benefits. It is also advisable to have multiple bedspreads to rotate them frequently. Remember to wash your bedding items properly, dry them thoroughly, and store them in a cool, dry place.