How to Care for Sheets and Bedding
Studies have shown that bedding is host to many types of fungi, which can lead to the development of asthma. Also, not only do crisp, clean sheets feel great, but you can increase the longevity of your bedding by making sure that you take good care of it.
How Often?
· Sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers should be washed at least once a week to reduce dust mites and germs.
· To prevent any build-up of bacteria, ensure that pillows and duvets are washed twice a year. Head down to your local launderettes for a duvet and pillow service wash if they do not fit in your machine at home.
Sheets and Mattress Protectors
It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions in addition to following these tips to help bedding last the test of time.
· Remove any spot stains from body lotions or food before you put sheets or mattress protectors into the wash, this will prevent them from permanently setting in the fabric under high temperatures
· Washing in warm water rather than hot will have less impact on the fibres of the sheets, which means they will last longer.
· The same applies to tumble drying, putting the setting on a lower heat will help preserve the fibres.
· Make sure sheets are completely dry before storing them to avoid any musty smells developing while they are in the cupboard.
· Try not to over pack the airing cupboard with linen, this prevents the air from circulating and can leave bad smells in clean laundry.
· Add a couple of bags of dried lavender to your airing cupboard to keep sheets smelling fresh.
· If you’ve ever wondered how to master the art of folding tricky fitted sheets and mattress protectors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHTyH2nuFAw
Duvet
Duvets tend to be too large for household washers as the weight of them when wet would most likely damage the machine. These tips should help to keep your duvet clean and germ free;
· Remove any stains before washing
· To wash the duvet at home, fill the bathtub with warm water and add a mild detergent, mix well and rub the duvet against itself. Leave to soak for an hour, drain the tub, rinse and repeat. Hang outside to dry.
· Alternatively, head to the local laundrette for a service wash.
· Feather duvets may need to go to the dry cleaners.
· Spritz with a fabric freshener to retain the clean smell.
· Try out this life hack for a simpler way to put the duvet cover back on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pit7DH8vwpw
Pillows
Pillows can be overlooked when it comes to cleaning bedding, but they are hotspots for bacteria, fungi and germs. Take care of them by following these top tips:
· Using pillow protectors will not only help to ward against allergens, bugs and germs but will also increase the longevity of your pillow.
· Pillow protectors will also help to stop hair and body oils from soaking through to the pillow fibres.
· The vast majority of pillows will fit into a household washing machine, check the instructions.
· Use liquid detergent to avoid any residue collecting inside the pillow.
· Wash two pillows at a time to help keep the machine balanced.
· Rinse twice to ensure all detergent has been removed.
· Use the lowest setting on the dryer to prevent the pillows clumping, also inserting a couple of tennis balls into the drum will help to keep pillows fluffy.~
For more information on getting a good night’s sleep, get in touch with our experienced, knowledgeable staff by calling 020 8731 0020 or email us via the Contact Us page.
Don’t forget, you can also stay updated by liking our Facebook page.