As we endure the colder months of winter, it’s almost certain that common colds, flu or sniffles will become more prevalent.
While it might be tempting to hibernate under your cosy duvet when feeling under the weather, it’s crucial to ensure your bedding is as clean as possible.
Thankfully, an expert has shared some invaluable advice on how to properly clean your bedsheets to ensure they’re fresh and inviting. Farah Arshad, Head of Product at DUSK, emphasised that washing bedding correctly is not only vital for your health but also for maintaining good hygiene, the Mirror reports.
By thoroughly cleaning your bedding, you can help eliminate the germs that contribute to illness and other irritations, ensuring a peaceful night’s sleep.
Farah explained: “Clean bedding is not only key for your comfort, but also your hygiene. When you sleep your body releases natural oils and sweat, which get transferred onto your bed sheets.
“So, just as you wash your clothes regularly, it’s as important to maintain the cleanliness of your bedding.”
The expert highlighted that getting the temperature right when washing your bedding can make all the difference. She advised: “Set the temperature of your washing machine to between 85-105 degrees Fahrenheit (30C to 40C).
“This is the optimal temperature to effectively remove dirt, body oils and to kill bacteria, while still protecting the fibres of your bedding.”
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Farah has highlighted that washing your sheets at the optimal temperature not only cleanses them of dirt and grime but also preserves the quality of your bedding for an extended period. The expert points out that it’s not just grime and sweat that soil our sheets – pet hair, dust mites, and other allergens can accumulate over time.
Regularly laundering your sheets is crucial as it helps to minimize irritants and prevent potential skin reactions. Farah advises: “In terms of how often you should be washing your sheets, it is generally recommended that you wash them twice a month.
“However, if you have been sick or are experiencing an increase in allergy symptoms you may want to wash them sooner.”
Additionally, Farah notes that the method of drying your sheets can impact their longevity. She suggests air drying or using a tumble dryer on a low setting as the best options, explaining: “The prolonged exposure to the high heat can damage the fibres in the fabric and result in bobbling to your duvet cover and pillowcases.”
For those concerned about having fresh bedding ready in time for bed, Farah recommends investing in two sets of sheets. “This means you can quickly change your sheets without the pressure of getting them cleaned and dry on the same day,” she offers as a tip.
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