How often should bedding be washed? The microbiologist explains

Most of us spend About one -third of our lives In bed. Sleep is not just downtime; This is necessary Normal brain function and general health. And although we often focus on the number of hours, the quality of our sleep environment also matters. A spotless, genial bed with crunchy sheets, pliable pillows and fresh blankets not only feel good, but also better rest.

But how often should we wash bed underwear?

According to 2022 Yougov surveyOnly 28% of the British wash their sheets once a week. The surprising number confessed to leaving it much longer, with some stretching to eight weeks or more between washing. So what are the guidelines supported by science?

Let’s break what really happens in your bed every night – and why regular washing is more than a matter of purity.

---

Get your messages from real experts, straight to the inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive the latest reports from news and research in Great Britain, from politics and business to art and science.

---

Every night, when we sleep, we throw Hundreds of thousands of skin cellsexcreted oils from our sebaceous glands and sweat up to half a liter of fluid – Even if we take a shower Just before bedtime. Our skin hosts Millions of bacteria and fungiMany of which are transferred to sheets, pillows and quilts when we move at night.

This fresh sweat can be odorlessBut bacteria on our skin, especially StaphylococciIN Put it on in smelly by -products. Often that’s why you wake up with the smell of your body, even if you went to sleep.

But it’s not just about microorganisms. During the day, our hair and bodies collect pollution, dust, pollen and allergenswhich can also move to our bedding. They can cause allergies, affect breathing and contribute to indigent air quality in the bedroom.

Dust mites, mushrooms and other unseen beds

. skin flakes We throw every night, we become food Dust mites – microscopic creatures that bloom in sultry, wet bedding and mattresses. The mites themselves are not threatening, but their faeces are faeces strong allergens This can worsen eczema, asthma and allergic nasalitis.

Mushrooms also think your bed is too attractive. Some species such as Aspergillus fumigatuswere detected in used beds and can cause Serious lung infectionsEspecially in people with a weakened immune system.

If you sleep with animals, the microbial party becomes even more colorful. Animals introduce additional hair, throat, dirt, and sometimes traces of feces to your sheets and blankets, increasing the frequency with which you should wash them.

---

Read more: You can be an advantage of sharing a bed with your pet – if you are meticulously spotless

---

How often should bedding be washed?

Sheets and pillows

• When: Every week or three to four days, if you were unwell, sweat a lot or share the bed with animals.

• Why: To remove sweat, oils, microorganisms, allergens and dead skin cells.

• How: Wash at 60 ° C or higher with a detergent to kill bacteria and dust mites. For deeper disinfection, droughty fall or iron. To direct the dust mites inside the pillows, Freeze for at least 8 hours.

Mattresses

• When: Vacuum at least every week and emit the mattress every few days.

• Why: Sweat increases the level of moisture, creating a mite breeding.

• Tips: Employ a plastic or allergen -resistant mattress protector and Replace the mattress every seven years To keep hygiene and support.

Interior of the pillow

Blankets and quilts

• When: Every two weeks or more often if the animals are sleeping on them.

• Why: They employ skin cells, sweat and allergens.

• How: Wash at 60 ° C or as high as the care label allows. Some tips are recommended Treating them like towels: regular and scorching washing maintain them hygienically.

Quilt

• When: Every three to four months, depending on exploit and whether pets or children divide your bed.

• Why: Even with cover, oils and mites eventually penetrate the filling.

• How: Check the label: Many quilts are machine washable, others may require Professional cleaning.

Your bed may look spotless – but it is full of microorganisms, allergens, mites and irritating that accumulate quickly. Washing bedding is not only keeping fresh things; It’s a matter of health.

Regular washing removes biological soup of sweat, skin, dust and microorganisms, which helps reduce allergic reactions, prevent infections and stop fragrances. And how Studies still show The deep impact of sleep on everything, from heart health to mental clarity, Hygienic sleep environment It is a petite but powerful investment in your well -being.

So go ahead – break the bed. Wash these sheets. Freeze pillows. Your microorganisms (and your bays) will thank you.

Sweet dreams – and cheerful washing.