Dust mites and sweat droplets may be lurking in and on your bedding
By Nancy Mattia, CTW Features
Admit it: You let your sheets linger on your bed way past their prime, changing them only when they look especially wrinkled or when they have a musty odor that hits you as soon as you walk into the bedroom. But here’s why you need to up your game and change your sheets on a regular schedule: clean sheets can help you get a better night’s sleep, which affects your overall health.
So, if you’re-sleep deprived, look to your linen closet for help! Ideally you should have three pairs of sheets for each bed: one pair is on the bed, another is waiting to be laundered, and a third is stored in the closet. Check out the Q&A below to find out more about the importance of clean sheets:
How often should you change your sheets?
The Sleep Foundation, a resource whose goal is to promote better sleep, recommends washing sheets and pillowcases once a week. But if your beloved pooch likes to snuggle with you in your bed, wash the sheets more often, if possible every three or four days. It’s also a good idea to change linens more frequently if you suffer with allergies and during summer months when you’re leaving more sweat residue allover your bedding.
Why should you wash them that often?
Even if you can’t see anything on your bedding, it may be filled with dust mites and their fecal matter, your dead skin cells, body oils, and sweat, which can contribute to skin breakouts such as rashes or trigger allergies and asthma.
Should you wash the sheets in cold water or is hot better?
Check the label then use the hottest water allow. Hot water will get rid of residue like saliva and dandruff better than cold water. Tumble dry everything on low.
What kind of soap should you use to clean linens?
Avoid harsh laundry detergents, which may irritate skin and cause dead skin cells to land on sheets. Gentle formulations are better.
How often should you wash other types of bedding such as blankets?
Wash blankets and comforters once every two to three months—they’re subject to the same intruders as sheets such as sweat and saliva. Clean duvet covers every two weeks to a month. If your pillows are the washable kind, clean them once every four to six months. Check the label’s washing instructions before attempting to wash bedding.
Should you clean mattresses too?
Yes, clean your mattresses every six months or so, which could extend the mattress’s longevity and help you sleep better too. Dust mites might be living inside your mattress, so plan on getting rid of them with water, dish detergent, a gentle detergent, and lots of clean rags. Get specific directions at sleepfoundation.org.