I am a microbiologist. Here's how often you should really wash your sheets

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Most of us spend about a third of our lives between BedSleep isn’t just downtime; It is essential for normal functioning of the brain and overall health,

And while we often focus on how many hours we’re getting, the quality of our sleep environment matters too. Clean, welcoming bed with crisp sheets, soft pillows And pillows and fresh Quilt Not only does it feel good, but it also supports better rest.

But how often should we actually wash our bed linens? How else We should change our scarf often,

as of 2022 YouGov According to the survey, only 28 percent of Britons wash their sheets once a week. A surprising number admitted to leaving it on longer, with some stretching eight weeks or more between washes.

So what is science-backed guidance?

Let’s find out what’s really happening on your bed every night – and why regular washing is more than just a question of cleanliness.

You're Probably Not Washing Your Bedding As Often As You Should — You’re Probably Not Washing Your Bedding As Often As You Should ,Getty Images/iStockphoto,

Every night, when we sleep, we shed thousands of skin cells, expel oil from our sebaceous glands, and sweat up to half a pint of fluid—even if we just showered before bed. Our skin contains millions of bacteria and fungi, many of which are transferred to sheets, pillowcases and quilts when we move during the night.

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That fresh sweat may be odorless, but bacteria on our skin, especially staphylococci, break it down into smelly byproducts. This is often why you wake up with body odor, even if you went to bed clean.

But it’s not just about that germsDuring the day, our hair and body collect pollutants, dust, pollen etc, Allergieswhich can also be transferred to us BedThese can trigger allergies, affect breathing and contribute to poor air quality In the bedroom.

Dust mites, fungus and other invisible companions

The bits of skin we shed each night become food for dust mites – microscopic organisms that thrive in warm, moist Bed And mattresses. The mites themselves are not dangerous, but their feces are powerful Allergies which can increase eczemaAsthma and allergic rhinitis.

Fungi also find your bedding attractive. Some species, such as Aspergillus fumigatus, have been found in used bed pillows and can cause serious lung infections, especially in people with weakened immune systems.

If you sleep with pets, the microbial party gets even livelier. Pets bring extra hair, dander, dirt, and sometimes feces marks to your sheets and blankets, causing you to increase the frequency with which you wash them.

So, how often should you wash your bedding?

sheets and pillowcases

When: Weekly, or every three to four days if you’re sick, sweat excessively, or share your bed with pets.

Why: To remove sweat, oil, germsAllergies and dead skin cells.

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How: Wash with detergent at 60°C or higher to kill bacteria and dust mites. For a deeper clean, tumble dry or iron. To target dust particles inside the pillow, freeze for at least 8 hours.

mattress

When: Vacuum at least weekly and air out the mattress every few days.

Why: Sweat increases moisture levels, creating a breeding ground for mites.

Tips: Use a plastic or allergen-proof mattress protector and replace the mattress every seven years to maintain cleanliness and support.

About the author

Primrose Freestone is Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology at the University of Leicester.

This article was originally published by Conversation And it is republished under a Creative Commons license. read the Original article.

pillow inner

When: Every four to six months (check the label first).

Why: The internal filler may contain bacteria and mold.

How: Wash thoroughly and dry completely to avoid fungal growth.

blankets and duvet covers

When: Every two weeks or more often if pets sleep on them.

Why: They trap skin cells, sweat and allergens.

How: Wash at 60°C or as high as the care label allows. Some guidelines recommend treating them like towels: regular, hot washing keeps them clean.

You should wash your bedding more often if you share it with a pet ,getty images,

Quilt

When: Every three to four months, depending on use and whether pets or children share your bed.

Why: Even with the lid on, body oils and mites eventually seep into the filler.

How: Check the label: Many duvets are machine washable, others may require professional cleaning.

Your bed may look clean – but it’s full of germs, allergens, mites and irritants that add up quickly. Washing your bedding isn’t just about keeping things fresh; This is a matter of health.

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Regular washing removes the biological soup of sweat, skin, dust and germs, which helps reduce allergic reactions, prevent infections and keep odors at bay. And as research shows the profound effects of sleep on everything from heart health to mental clarity, a clean sleep environment is a small but powerful investment in your well-being.

So go ahead – strip the bed. Wash those sheets. Freeze your pillows. Your germs (and your sinuses) will thank you.

Sweet dreams – and happy laundering.