How to Wash and Care for Your Bedding the Right Way

Bedding is more than just fabric—it’s where you rest, recharge, and spend nearly one-third of your life. But here’s the truth: most people don’t wash their bedding correctly. Some wash it too much, some too little, and others damage their sheets and duvets without even realizing it.

Ever wondered why your once-soft sheets now feel scratchy? Or why your pillows seem to flatten too quickly? It’s all in the washing and care.

So, let’s break it down, step by step. This isn’t just a basic “wash your sheets every week” guide—this is the ultimate guide to keeping your bedding fresh, fluffy, and long-lasting.

By the end of this, you’ll know:

✔ How often to wash different types of bedding

✔ The right way to wash, dry, and store your sheets, pillows, duvets, and mattress protectors

✔ Common mistakes that ruin bedding and how to avoid them

✔ Pro-level hacks to keep your bedding feeling brand new

Let’s get into it!

How Often Should You Wash Your Bedding?

Before we jump into the washing process, let’s talk about frequency. How often should you actually be washing your bedding?

Sheets & Pillowcases – Once a week

Your sheets and pillowcases touch your skin every night. That means they collect sweat, oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. If you sleep with pets or sweat a lot, twice a week is even better.

Duvet Covers – Every 2–3 weeks

Since duvet covers don’t have as much direct skin contact as sheets, they can go a little longer between washes. But don’t push it too far—dust and bacteria still accumulate!

Pillows – Every 3–6 months

Pillows absorb sweat and dust mites over time. If yours aren’t washable, at least air them out and use pillow protectors (which should be washed every 1–2 months).

Duvets & Comforters – Every 3–6 months

If you use a duvet cover, your duvet itself doesn’t need washing often. But it still collects dust, so a seasonal clean is ideal.

Mattress Protectors – Every 1–2 months

Your mattress protector is your mattress’s first line of defense. Keeping it clean helps extend the life of your mattress.

📌: If you sweat a lot, have allergies, or sleep with pets, wash your bedding more frequently.

The Right Way to Wash Your Bedding

Now that you know how often to wash everything, let’s talk about how to do it properly.

Step 1: Read the Care Label

Different fabrics need different care. Always check the care label before tossing anything in the machine. Some fabrics need cold water, others need gentle cycles, and some should never be dried with heat.

Step 2: Sort by Fabric Type & Color

Mixing delicate sheets with heavy towels? Big mistake. Wash bedding separately to prevent damage and pilling.

✔ Separate whites, lights, and darks

✔ Wash sheets separately from towels and clothing

✔ Use a mesh laundry bag for delicate pillowcases

Step 3: Choose the Right Detergent

Skip harsh detergents—they break down fibers and fade colors. Instead:

✔ Use a mild, liquid detergent (powders can leave residue)

✔ Skip bleach unless absolutely necessary

✔ Avoid fabric softeners (they coat fibers and reduce absorbency)

📌 Pro Tip: Use ½ the usual amount of detergent. Too much can leave residue and make sheets feel stiff.

Step 4: Pick the Right Wash Cycle & Temperature

✔ Cotton sheets – Warm water, gentle cycle

✔ Linen sheets – Cold water, delicate cycle

✔ Silk or satin sheets – Hand wash or delicate cycle with cold water

✔ Duvets & comforters – Large-capacity washer, gentle cycle

🚨 Hot water isn’t always better! It can shrink fabrics and weaken fibers. Stick to warm or cold washes for longevity.

Step 5: The Right Way to Dry Bedding

✔ Air-drying is best – It keeps fibers soft and prevents shrinkage.

✔ If using a dryer: Use low heat and remove while slightly damp to prevent over-drying.

✔ Use wool dryer balls – They reduce static and make sheets softer without fabric softener.

📌 : For extra freshness, add a few drops of essential oil (like lavender) to dryer balls.

Caring for Specific Bedding Items

How to Wash Pillows Properly

1. Check if they’re machine washable. Memory foam pillows should not be machine washed—only the covers should be cleaned.

2. Use mild detergent and warm water.

3. Wash two pillows at a time to balance the machine.

4. Rinse twice to remove all soap.

5. Dry with dryer balls or tennis balls to maintain fluffiness.

How to Wash a Duvet or Comforter

1. Use a large-capacity washer. If it doesn’t fit, take it to a laundromat.

2. Use a small amount of mild detergent.

3. Choose a gentle cycle with warm water.

4. Dry on low heat with dryer balls to prevent clumping.

📌 : Air out duvets and pillows in the sun to keep them fresh between washes.

Common Bedding Washing Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Using too much detergent – It makes sheets stiff and traps dirt.

🚫 Washing on high heat – It weakens fibers and fades colors.

🚫 Overloading the washer – Bedding needs room to move for a proper clean.

🚫 Skipping the second rinse – Residue buildup makes sheets feel rough.

🚫 Not drying properly – Over-drying leads to shrinkage, while damp bedding breeds mold.

Pro Hacks to Keep Your Bedding Feeling Brand New

✔ Rotate sheets – Have at least two sets so one can rest while the other is in use.

✔ Iron or steam sheets – It smooths out fibers and gives that hotel feel.

✔ Use a mattress protector – It keeps your mattress fresh and extends its life.

✔ Store bedding properly – Fold neatly and keep in a dry, cool place.

 Bedding Care is Self-Care

Your bed is your sanctuary. Taking care of your bedding = taking care of yourself. Clean, well-maintained bedding not only lasts longer but also improves your sleep quality, skin, and overall comfort.

By washing the right way, avoiding common mistakes, and using pro-level care hacks, you can keep your bedding feeling luxurious, fresh, and cozy—every single night.

So, when’s the last time you washed your sheets the right way?