Are You Washing Your Sheets Enough?

Our beds are a lot dirtier than most of us realize. Sheets are covered with bacteria, dead skin, and germs that are invisible to the eye — and because of that, it’s easy to forget to wash them. But you really should be cleaning your sheets more than you think.

What Makes Sheets So Dirty?

The average person spends eight hours a day in bed. During that time, humans lose a large percentage of the 500 million skin cells they shed daily. Combined with drool, hair, and the 16 to 24 ounces of sweat that humans produce each night, pools of dirt and bacteria form on the sheets, making the bedroom one of the most bacteria-heavy environments in the house — even more so than the bathroom. The dirt, grime, and bacterial build-up may worsen skin conditions like acne and eczema. Over time, sheets can also collect dust that can contribute to bad allergies. 

How Often Should You Wash Your Sheets?

The average American washes their sheets every 24 days. However, studies have shown that it’s best to wash sheets every one to two weeks. If you own a pet, have allergies, or have skin conditions that dirty sheets may worsen, wash them every three to four days.

Heavier bedding, such as duvets and comforters, can be washed less often. Duvet covers should be washed every two to four weeks, while blankets and comforters should be cleaned every two to three months. Pillows should be cleaned two to three times annually, though pillowcases should be washed just as regularly as your sheets.

How to Wash Sheets

Properly caring for your sheets depends on the fabric, so it’s best to consult the care label before washing. In general, however, you should wash sheets with warm water and a low spin rate to prevent them from tangling. If you’ve just recovered from being sick, wash your sheets in hot water and use a disinfecting detergent to kill any remaining germs and bacteria. Avoid mixing your sheets with other laundry, as this may lead to pilling, lint buildup, and damage from zippers and buttons. Tumble-dry your sheets on a low-heat setting to prevent damage, heavy wrinkling, and shrinkage. If you want to further minimize wrinkling, remove your sheets while they are still damp and hang them up to dry.

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