How Often Should You Wash Bedding

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of snuggling up at night in fresh bedding – but just how often do you need to wash your bedding to keep it at its best?

Here, we’re discussing just that. Read on for advice on how often to wash your bedding, the best temperature to wash bedding in the washing machine, and general advice to keep that fresh bedding feeling for even longer. 

How often should you change and wash your sheets?

While washing bedding is often a matter of individual preference, as a general rule, you should be washing your sheets, pillowcases and bedding items once a week.

Depending on a few different factors, such as personal preference, allergies and whether you sweat during sleep, you may choose to wash your bedding more frequently to keep it feeling fresh.

Pillowcases, in particular, can get dirty much quicker than the rest of your bedding. As pillowcases come into direct contact with your face and hair, they can accumulate dirt, sweat and oils. If you carry out a skincare routine just before bed, you may also find product can transfer to your pillowcases, making them feel dirtier. If you find a lot of product transferring to your pillowcases, you could carry out your skincare routine a little earlier in the evening or wash your pillowcases more frequently.

Should you wash new bedding?

Yes – it’s generally best to wash new bedding before you use it. While most bedding items are manufactured and packaged in clean environments, there’s always the risk of them picking up dirt, dust or other residues during packing and transportation.

Some new bedding items may also contain chemicals or finishes that have been applied during manufacturing, which can give them an unpleasant odour or potentially cause skin irritation. Washing bedding before use ensures all chemicals are removed. Plus, washing new bedding is the best way to make sure it smells clean and fresh, making it more comfortable and appealing from the very beginning. 

How to wash bedding in the washing machine

Washing your bedding properly helps keep it clean, fresh and in its best condition – leading to a better night’s sleep! Follow these general guidelines when washing bedding in the washing machine: 

• Check the care label

Before putting any garments or bedding in the washing machine, always check to see if the manufacturer has included a care label. This will contain specific information on how best to wash the item, including temperature, detergent types and any individual requirements.

• Separate colours

Lights, darks and colours should always be separated to ensure no colour bleeds from one item to another.

• Separate fabrics

If you have silk or satin bedding or pillowcases, they will require a gentler cycle than cotton. Always separate bedding by fabric so you can choose the most appropriate setting.

• Pre-treat any stains

If you have stains on your bedding, a regular wash cycle is usually not enough to remove them. Pre-treat stains with a stain remover before washing. Depending on the stain, you can treat them with a homemade baking soda and water solution before washing them.

Be careful if you’re dealing with blood stains, as hot water can cause them to ‘set in’ to fabrics – they’ll need treating carefully and ideally washing on a cold setting to remove them.

• Don’t use too much detergent

Many people are tempted to overdo detergent and fabric softener when it comes to bedding, hoping for a fresher scent. However, too much product can leave a residue behind and leave your sheets feeling stiff or potentially causing skin irritation.

• Use a gentle setting

To prolong the lifespan of your bedding, it’s best to wash it on a gentle setting.

• Don’t overload the washer

If you’re washing a lot of bedding at once, make sure the washer isn’t too full. If the bedding can’t ‘tumble’ in the wash, it won’t be cleaned and rinsed effectively. Ensure there is some space left in the washing machine so the bedding can move around.

What temperature to wash bedding on  

Bedding is best washed in cool or warm water.

The right temperature for your bedding can depend on a few different factors, such as fabric type, colour, and the care instructions on the label.

However, generally speaking, most bedding can be washed on a cool wash (around 30°C). This temperature is suitable for most fabrics, including silks and satins, and helps keep colours from fading.

If you have very dirty bedding or want a deeper clean, you can opt for a warmer wash, between 40-60°C. Warmer water can be better for loosening and removing dirt and ensures the bedding is free from bacteria and allergens.

A hot wash (above 60°C) is usually not recommended for bedding, as hot water can lead to shrinkage, fading, or damage of delicate fibres. Unless the care instructions call for it, avoid hot water. The exception to this is items like mattress protectors and pillow covers, as hot water can help kill germs and ensure a thorough clean.

Are you looking to make your laundry even more efficient? Look no further than the Hoover washing range. From washing machines to washer dryers, you can find everything you need to make laundry day a breeze.