Washing bedding can be a chore, but knowing the proper way to clean your sheets can lead to a more comfortable sleep and even save you money in the long run. While it may seem like a good idea to wash bed sheets at 60°C or 90°C in the washing machine to kill bacteria, Lianne Shoolbread, a bedding expert from Soak & Sleep, recommends a different approach.
She advises sticking to the care labels and washing most fabrics at a warm temperature of 40°C. This temperature is effective in removing dirt, natural body oils, and germs. Silk bed sheets, however, should be washed at a lower temperature of 30°C with a mild, non-biological detergent or a silk specialist washing detergent.
It’s a common misconception that bedding needs to be washed on a very hot cycle to kill bacteria. But Shoolbread assures us that a lower wash is just as effective. In fact, washing bedding at a high temperature can cause the fabric to wear out quickly, leading to faded colors and weakened material.
Modern laundry detergents are designed to be effective at lower temperatures, so there’s no need to use a hot wash for bedding. This not only kills bacteria but also reduces the washing machine’s energy consumption, benefiting the environment and saving you money on your energy bills.
The 40°C wash recommendation extends beyond sheets to other bedding items like mattress protectors, pillow covers, and duvets. For pillows and duvets, Shoolbread recommends washing them on a very low heat if your washing machine is large enough. If not, consider taking them to a dry cleaner. For best results, allow bedding to air dry.
The frequency of washing bedding is a matter of personal preference, but Shoolbread strongly advises washing sheets at least once a week to prevent stain buildup. Sheets are in direct contact with your body and can show signs of dirt and stains. To maintain a clean and comfortable sleep environment, she suggests changing sheets at least once a week.
If washing bedding this frequently isn’t feasible, having spare bedding can be a lifesaver. Simply swap sets weekly and add them to the wash load when convenient. By following these simple laundry tips, you can keep your sheets fresh and clean without too much effort, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic sleep experience throughout the summer.
