Nobody wants a dirty bed, but according to some experts many of us aren't consistent enough with our cleaning.
The specialists at Reviewed have provided some guidance that may help us improve the hygiene of our bedding.
They warn that if we keep on using dirty sheets, we risk: "sleeping while surrounded by body oils, bacteria, dead skin cells, and dust mites.”
While some may see it as a hassle, regularly cleaning your sheets can stave off germs and allergens, and has even been found to help you sleep better, the Mirror reports.
Here are seven steps that you should make part of your weekly washing routine for cleaner and more hygienic sheets.
1) Always read the label carefully, as not all bedding is the same. Different fabrics will need different treatments, so ensure you are always using the best specific method to get the best results
2) Pretreat any stains before putting the sheets in the wash
3) Follow the correct cycle and water temperature as stated on the care tags. These can also be adjusted depending on the dirtiness of the bedding. Washing in colder water causes less wear and tear and will keep them in a better condition, but higher temperatures do a better job of deep-cleaning and getting rid of body oils when needed
4) Don't overfill the washing machine as sheets need room to move around in the drum to allow them to get clean
5) Avoid using tumble dryer sheets as they can make the fabrics less absorbent. Instead, use dryer balls, which "bounce around in the drum and prevent the load from twisting and bunching together", leading to better results
6) When possible, hang your sheets on an outdoor clothesline as it gives bedding "an incredibly fresh smell and lets sunlight disinfect it"
7) Ironing bed sheets from time-to-time can help to kill off any germs or mites which may have made it through the wash cycle
When it comes to your duvet, it doesn't need washing as often as your sheets, but it's always good to give it a good clean every now and again.
It's previously been recommended to wash your duvet every two or three months, or a minimum of twice a year, to stop an infestation of bed mites.
Pillows should be washed at the same time, and the mattress itself should be given a clean down once a year.
Do you have any cleaning tips of your own? Let us know in the comments.
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