Weekly Washing at 60°C Recommended
According to Which, the consumer watchdog, most people should wash their bedding covers — including bed sheets, pillow cases and duvet covers — once per week. The recommended temperature is 60°C, as this suits most materials and effectively removes sweat and kills bacteria. Cooler temperatures may not provide a thorough clean. However, silk sheets should be washed at 30°C using a gentle detergent.
Allergy and Asthma Considerations
For those with allergies or asthma, Which advises washing bedding more frequently than once a week at 60°C. Where feasible, higher temperatures may help alleviate symptoms. Always check the care label before washing at high temperatures. Regular washing also helps prevent bedbugs, as frequent changes allow early detection and high-temperature washing and tumble drying can eradicate them.
Mattress Topper Care
Mattress toppers and protectors trap sweat, dust, and debris. Which recommends washing them every two to three months.
Pillow Washing Frequency
Feather, down, and microfibre pillows can often be machine washed. The general recommendation is every four to six months. Use a delicate cycle and wash two pillows together to keep them balanced. Dry on low heat to prevent damage and fluff them back into shape. Memory foam pillows should not be machine washed; remove the cover for cleaning and follow manufacturer instructions to avoid invalidating guarantees. Pillow protectors help keep allergens away, but pillows themselves should still be washed twice a year.
Duvet Cleaning Schedule
Wash your duvet once or twice a year. Many duvets can be washed at home if the washing machine is large enough to allow free movement. Always check the care label. For smaller stains, treat them by hand with detergent or stain remover first. If unsure, take the duvet to a professional dry cleaner.
Mattress Cleaning Tips
There is no set rule for cleaning a mattress. A good guideline is to clean and freshen it every six months. Rotate or flip as recommended by the manufacturer, but note that some mattresses should not be flipped. For allergy sufferers, signs like a runny nose or itchy eyes may indicate it is time to clean the mattress.
