You spend around a third of your life in bed. So it’s worth asking: when did you last wash your sheets? If you’re struggling to remember, you’re not alone, and you’re probably overdue.
Here’s what the experts say about bed sheet hygiene, and how to build a washing routine that actually sticks.
The short answer: once a week
Most health experts agree that sheets should be washed at least once a week. That includes your fitted sheet, top sheet and pillowcases.
The National Asthma Council Australia recommends washing bedding in water hotter than 60 degrees to kill dust mites and remove the allergens they leave behind. Thorough drying afterwards helps stop any mites surviving the wash.
Why it builds up so fast
Every night, your skin sheds cells, releases oils and loses moisture through sweat, even on a cool night. That combination is exactly what dust mites feed on. Leave it long enough, and your bed becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and allergens.
When you should wash more often
A weekly wash is the baseline, but some situations call for more frequent washing:
- Hot sleepers or heavy sweaters: aim for every three to four days.
- Pets sleeping on the bed: wash every three to four days to keep dander and outdoor bacteria under control.
- Allergies or asthma: stick to a strict weekly wash in hot water.
- Someone in the house is unwell: wash sheets straight away and again once they’ve recovered.
- Summer nights: increase to twice a week when the heat has everyone sweating more.
What about doonas, blankets and pillows?
Doona covers and blankets
These don’t touch your skin directly, so they can go longer between washes. Every two to four weeks is plenty for most households.
Pillows and doona inners
Wash these every three to four months. Check the care label first, as some inners need a gentle cycle or should only be spot cleaned.
Tips for keeping sheets fresher, longer
- Shower before bed to reduce the oils and sweat transferred to your sheets.
- Keep pets off the bed, or at least off your pillow.
- Rotate two or three sets of sheets so laundry day never feels overwhelming.
- Make sure sheets are completely dry before making the bed. Damp linen invites mould and mildew.
Let us take bed sheet day off your hands
Washing, drying and making the bed with fresh sheets takes real time out of your week. If it’s the chore you keep putting off, we can take it off your plate.
The Laundry Lady picks up your sheets, doona covers and towels, washes and dries them properly, then delivers them back folded and ready to go. Our Laundry Partners handle it all, so bed sheet day never has to compete with the rest of your to-do list.
Simply book your pickup online through our website. No need to pick up the phone, just choose a time that suits and we’ll do the rest.
Ready for fresher sheets without the effort? Book your laundry pickup with The Laundry Lady today and reclaim your weekend.
