How Often You Should Wash Your Bedding, According to a Microbiologist

We spend nearly a third of our lives curled up in bed, yet many of us don’t give our bedding the attention it deserves. If you’ve ever wondered how often to wash your bedding, the answer might surprise you. 

Between sweat, skin cells, and invisible guests like dust mites, your sheets can get pretty grimy, pretty quickly. And keeping them clean isn’t just about fresh scents; it’s about your health, your sleep quality, and even your skin.

Together, let’s uncover what’s really lurking beneath your sheets, and how to kick it out for good.

Are You Washing Your Bedding Often Enough?

It may feel peaceful, but your bed becomes a busy place overnight. You shed skin cells by the thousands, sweat out moisture, and transfer body oils and bacteria onto everything from pillowcases to duvet covers. 

If you’ve been outside during the day, you’re also bringing in pollen, dust, and air pollutants that settle into your sheets.

And these warm, damp conditions are perfect for dust mites. These microscopic creatures aren’t dangerous themselves, but their droppings can trigger allergies, worsen asthma, and irritate sensitive skin. 

Add in the fungi and bacteria that can flourish in used bedding, especially pillows, and you’ve got a perfect storm of discomfort if you’re not keeping things clean.

How Often to Wash Your Bedding

Microbiologists and doctors agree: a weekly wash is ideal. This helps remove that mix of sweat, skin, bacteria, and allergens before it builds up. 

And, if you sleep with pets, sweat heavily, or have been under the weather, washing every three to four days is even better.

In truth, a sheet washing routine may feel like a chore but, once you get into the habit, it becomes second nature. Plus, your nose (and skin) will thank you.

Sheets and Pillowcases Deserve Regular Attention

Think of sheets and pillowcases as the frontline defense. They’re in direct contact with your body every night, soaking up everything you bring to bed. And, again, if you’re wondering how often to wash your sheets, the answer is weekly, if not more. 

Wash them in hot water, around 140°F if your fabric allows, and make sure they’re thoroughly dried. This helps kill bacteria and dust mites in sheets, while also removing any odors or residue that might still be lingering.

Don’t Forget Duvets, Blankets, and Pillows

Duvet covers and blankets should be washed every two weeks – or more if you let pets snuggle in with you. The duvets themselves can go a bit longer, about every three to four months. 

Give your pillows a deep clean every four to six months, depending on the type and manufacturer’s instructions. You can even pop some pillows into the freezer for eight hours to help neutralize mites.

Blankets and duvets might seem clean, but they absorb just as much sweat and skin as everything else. So, remember, when it comes to bedding care tips, heat is your friend. A warm wash will not only freshen things up, but sanitize them, as well.

Mattresses Need Love, Too

Mattresses often get overlooked, but they’re part of the equation. Vacuum yours weekly and air it out when you can. 

Moisture builds up beneath you as you sleep, creating the perfect environment for mites and mold. 

An allergen-proof mattress protector can go a long way in keeping things clean underneath. And, if your mattress is nearing the seven-year mark, it might be time to consider a replacement.

Make Clean Bedding Part of Your Wellness Routine

A tidy bed isn’t just pleasing to the eye. It can improve your sleep quality, reduce allergy flare-ups, and help with skin issues like acne or eczema. Plus, climbing into freshly laundered sheets is one of life’s simplest pleasures.

But, whether you're wondering how to wash your sheets the right way or just trying to build a sheet washing routine, know that consistency is key. 

Treat your bedding like your clothes. It needs regular care, especially since you use it every night.

Time to Freshen Up

Knowing how often to wash your bedding can make a real difference in how you sleep, breathe, and feel. With just a little bit of planning, you can keep allergens, dust mites, and skin irritants at bay, all while creating a comfier place to rest.