A sleep specialist has shared insights on how to keep your bed sheets clean and save money, with a focus on the ideal washing temperature. Chris Tattersall, the sleep expert and Managing Director of Woolroom, said: “Washing your bed sheets is a task that should be completed once a week, which can be extended to two weeks should you not sleep in your bed every evening.”
This frequent washing helps remove dead skin cells, sweat, body oils, dirt, and dust mites. Chris ominously added: “All of the dead skin and body oil, combined with your sweat as you sleep, is absorbed by your bedding, making it a breeding ground for dust mites.”
Those who experience eye irritation and a runny nose might be reacting to the copious amounts of unseen dust mites hiding in their beds. On the topic of wash temperatures, Chris specified: “When it comes to the washing, this should be done on a regular 40-degree wash.”
Maintaining cleanliness isn’t just about the bed sheets—it’s also crucial to regularly launder the duvet and mattress protector, reports the Express.
Expanding on their lifespan, Chris observed: “With duvets and mattress protectors, these have a lifespan of around five years, though this will be determined by the fibres used in your duvet.”
Echoing this sentiment, washing brand Lenor stated: “a good temperature to wash bed sheets is 40 degrees”, but they note a 60C cycle is more effective at eradicating bacteria, especially when dealing with illness in the home.
If you’re the proud owner of silk bedsheets, the delicate fabric likely requires a “hand washed” in the bath basin. Given that silk sheets aren’t fans of high temperatures, they should be washed in lukewarm water of 30C or lower.
Lenor advised: “Fill a large basin or your bath with lukewarm water… make sure you don’t wash your silk sheets with any other items to avoid fibre damage.”
After adding detergent and fabric softener to the lukewarm bath, mix with your hands before introducing the silk bedsheets. “Soak your sheets for a few minutes before removing and rinsing with fresh water,” Lenor instructed.
“To dry your sheets, gently squeeze out any excess water and avoid twisting or wringing. If you’re unable to hang dry your sheets, lay them on a clean and light-coloured towel.”