Your bedding may need more frequent washing than you think

From dead skin cells and body oils to sweat and pet hair, our bed sheets collect more than we realize. So how long can you really go before they need a wash? 

According to Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, professor of Environmental Microbiology at Loma Linda University, the answer depends on your lifestyle and sleeping habits. 

How often should you change your bedding? 

Health experts generally recommend changing your bedding at least once a week. However, Sinclair advises washing it even more frequently if you use a lot of skin care products before bed, have dust mite allergies, or share your bed, especially with pets. 

Dead skin cells, natural body oils, and skin care products can build up quickly on bedding, creating an ideal environment for unhealthy bacteria and dust mites. While this buildup may not affect everyone, it can trigger allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals. 

“Sleeping with pets introduces even more germs and allergens, since they carry dirt, dander, and other microorganisms,” Sinclair says. “Consider keeping them out of the bedroom, and if they do sleep in your bed, washing your bedding more frequently becomes even more important.” 

The same advice applies to pillowcases. From sweat and drool to dandruff and skin care products, pillowcases collect a surprising amount of debris. According to one study, a pillowcase can harbor up to 3 million bacteria after just one week of use, about 17,000 times more than the average toilet seat. 

A good rule of thumb is to wash or change your pillowcase every three to four days. 

“Our faces are particularly sensitive, and pillowcases can quickly collect oils, sweat, and skin cells,” Sinclair says. “If you aren’t washing them regularly, you may notice more frequent breakouts.” 

How to wash bedding  

When washing bedding, always check the care label first, as some materials require specific washing instructions. 

A few general tips to keep in mind: 

• Wash bedding using the hottest water setting recommended on the care label. 

• Follow the detergent manufacturer's instructions, and opt for a mild detergent if you have sensitive skin. 

• Bleach can be used when appropriate and permitted by the care instructions to help disinfect and remove stains. 

“Bleach is a great disinfectant and does an excellent job of eliminating germs and unhealthy bacteria,” Sinclair says. 

When should you replace your bedding? 

Like everything else, bedding has a lifespan. Depending on the material and level of use, sheets can last up to five years. However, if you notice stains that won't come out, thinning fabric, tears, or loose threads, it may be time for a replacement. 

“If it looks old, you should probably get rid of it,” Sinclair says.