So, how often should you change your bedding?
For most households, changing your bedding every 7 - 10 days is generally sufficient, but you could stretch it to once every two weeks as well.
This interval helps to prevent a large build-up of dirt, sweat, and dead skin cells.
It also helps to keep any unpleasant odours at bay.
When should you change your bedding more frequently?
You may need to wash your bedding more often if any of these situations apply:
1. You sweat heavily
If you sweat a lot during the night, you should aim to change your bedding weekly.
This is particularly important during the summer months or for individuals who generally sleep a little hotter.
2. You sleep naked
While there may be some benefits to sleeping naked, going nude means your body is in direct contact with your bodding.
This also means more dead skin cells and bodily fluids transfer to the fabric, so a weekly change is the more hygienic option.
3. You have allergies
Dust mites are a significant issue for allergy sufferers.
To minimise exposure, it's recommended to change your bed linen at least once a week.
Alternatively, you could use special allergy-proof covers or invest in an anti-dust-mite mattress.
4. Pets sleep in your bed
We love cuddling with our favourite furry friends, but pet hair, dirt, and saliva add to the grime in your bedding.
If you sleep in a bed with your floof, you should aim to change the covers weekly.
5. After being ill
After a cold, flu, or other infectious illness, it's wise to change your bedding immediately to remove germs and prevent re-infection.
Why is changing your bedding so important?
Our bodies lose up to 1.5 litres of fluid every night - and that's in addition to all the dead skin cells, hair, and other particles that accumulate in your bedding.
These residues create an ideal breeding ground for dust mites, bacteria, and fungi.
An unhygienic sleep environment can lead to skin irritations, allergies, and poorer sleep quality.
This is true for all people, but allergy sufferers in particular need to minimuse their exposure to mites.
People with sensitive skin or a tendency towards breakouts will also benefit from clean bedding.
In fact, people struggling with acne may benefit from using silk pillowcases and changing these a few times a week!
In short: anyone who values good sleep should also pay attention to the cleanliness of their bed.
Tips for looking after your bedding properly
To keep your bedding clean and help it last longer, follow these tips:
- Wash your bedding at 60°C as this temperature effectively kills mites and bacteria
- For white bedding, use a powder-based laundry detergent with bleaching agents
- For coloured bedding, use a colour-safe detergent
- Allow the bedding to dry completely - ideally outdoors on a washing line or, if you must, by using a tumble dryer
- Air your bedroom daily to keep it fresh
- Don't make the bed immediately after getting up to allow moisture to escape
These tips will keep your bedding, mattress, and overall sleep setup in tip-top shape.
Conclusion: How often should you change your bedding?
Anyone wanting to sleep restfully and healthily shouldn't underestimate the importance of clean bedding.
Two weeks is a good general guideline – but depending on your circumstances, more frequent washing can be beneficial.
Pay particular attention to proper care and washing hygiene, as this not only protects your health but also extends the lifespan of your bedding.
Frequently asked questions
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Should I only change my duvet covers and pillowcases, or also change the fitted sheet?
Your fitted sheet should always be changed as well, as it's in direct contact with your body.
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Can I wash bedding at 40°C to save energy?
You can wash your bedding at 40°C but only washing at 60°C and over will effectively kill mites and germs.
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How often should I change my bedding in the summer?
Ideally, aim for a weekly change, as you tend to sweat more during the warmer months.
Alternatively, message us directly via the Contact Us page.