So, how often should you change your bedding?
For most households, changing your bedding every two weeks is generally sufficient.
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?
In these situations, you'll need to wash your bedding more often:
1. If 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 tend to sweat more (night sweats).
2. If you sleep naked
Without nightwear (pyjamas), your body has direct contact with the bedding.
This means more dead skin cells and bodily fluids transfer to the fabric – so a weekly change is more hygienic here.
3. If 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.
4. If pets sleep in your bed
Pet hair, dirt, and saliva add to the grime in your bedding.
In this case, you should also 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.
However, if none of these situations apply to you, then every two weeks should be perfectly fine!
Why is changing your bedding so important?
While we sleep, our bodies lose up to 1.5 litres of fluid every night.
Add to this dead skin cells, hair, and other particles that accumulate in the 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.
It's particularly important for allergy sufferers to minimise exposure to mites and their droppings.
People with sensitive skin or a tendency towards breakouts will also benefit from clean bedding.
In short: anyone who values good sleep should also pay attention to cleanliness in their bed.
Tips for looking after your bedding properly
To keep your bedding not only clean but also long-lasting, these tips will help:
- Wash your bedding at at least 60°C (this 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.
- Air your bedroom daily.
- Don't make the bed immediately after getting up to allow moisture to escape.
Conclusion: How often should you change your bedding?
Anyone wanting to sleep restfully and healthily shouldn't underestimate the importance of 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 life of your bedding.
Frequently asked questions
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Should I only change my duvet covers and pillowcases, or does the fitted sheet need changing too?
The fitted sheet should always be changed as well, as it has direct contact with your body.
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Can I wash bedding at 40°C to save energy?
It's best not to - 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.