Bedsheets are prone to collecting various unwanted substances such as skin cells, body oils, sweat, dust mites, and more. It is crucial to wash your sheets on a weekly basis in order to maintain cleanliness. Washing sheets in hot water is especially effective in killing dust mites, viruses, and bacteria. Given that we spend a significant amount of time in bed, investing in high-quality sheets can be a costly endeavor. Therefore, it is important to understand how to properly clean and maintain your sheets.
While most bedsheets are typically made of cotton and can tolerate high temperatures, certain sheets, such as linen sheets, may have different care instructions. Even if you are certain that your sheets are made of cotton, it is always advisable to read the label before washing them. Some sheets may have coatings or properties that are not compatible with high heat, bleach, or ironing.
So, how often should you wash your sheets? According to experts, it is recommended to wash your sheets once a week for several reasons. Jessica Samson, a cleaning expert with The Maids, emphasizes that even if you are diligent about personal hygiene and shower daily, your sheets still accumulate dead skin cells, sweat, body oils, and other unpleasant substances over time. Dust mites, microscopic pests that resemble spiders, thrive on dead skin cells commonly found on bedding. Dr. Maya Jerath, an allergist-immunologist, explains that individuals who are sensitive to dust mites and suffer from nasal allergies, asthma, or eczema can benefit from regularly washing sheets, comforters, stuffed animals, and using protective covers for mattresses and pillows. In addition, if someone is sick or prone to accidents (such as potty training children or pets), it is important to wash the sheets more frequently and as soon as possible after any incidents.
When it comes to washing sheets without bleach, both Jessica Samson and the Williams sisters, co-founders of the eco-friendly laundromat Celsious, suggest alternative methods. Samson advises treating any stains before washing the sheets and highlights that most cotton sheets do not require special care and can be washed in hot water. However, it is still important to refer to the care instructions on the label. The Williams sisters recommend avoiding bleach altogether, as it can be harsh on fabric, resulting in reduced longevity and potential yellowing. Instead, they suggest using an oxygen booster to treat stains and maintain the brightness of white sheets. Oxygen boosters typically contain sodium percarbonate and are safe for colored sheets.
If you are washing cotton sheets, it is recommended to use the hottest setting that the sheets can withstand. In terms of drying, low heat is optimal for longevity. Fabric softener should be avoided, as it can coat the fibers and affect the absorbency of the sheets.
For linen sheets, it is important to use lukewarm or cold water to prevent shrinking. To maintain the softness of linen, the Williams sisters suggest adding a ¼ cup of white vinegar to the washer’s fabric softener compartment and using dryer balls during the drying process. Drying linen sheets on low heat is also advisable. If you prefer to remove the natural wrinkles in linen, you can use a steamer or warm iron, as long as the label does not caution against it.
For those who prefer washing sheets in cold water to save energy, it is still recommended to add ¼ cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to eliminate any odors. Running a warm or hot cycle on a monthly basis can also be beneficial in killing viruses and bacteria.
In conclusion, washing sheets involves finding a balance between ensuring cleanliness and prolonging their lifespan. Using hot water, preferably over 130 degrees Fahrenheit, is effective in eliminating dust mites, while temperatures exceeding 140 degrees Fahrenheit can help kill viruses and bacteria. However, certain bedsheets may not tolerate high temperatures well, so it is essential to refer to the care instructions on the label. The use of bleach and fabric softener should be avoided, and drying sheets on high heat can have negative effects. By following these guidelines, you can keep your sheets clean and maximize their longevity.
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