We spend about a third of our lives in bed, and yet, many of us don’t wash our bedding nearly as often as we should.
Clean sheets aren’t just about comfort (though slipping into freshly washed sheets is one of life’s simple joys). Regularly washing your bedding is also important for your health, skin, and overall sleep quality.
So, how often should you really be tossing your sheets in the wash? Let’s break it down.
Sheets: Once a Week
Why: Sheets come into direct contact with your skin every night. Over time, they collect sweat, dead skin cells, natural oils, and even allergens like dust mites.
Best practice:
- Wash sheets every 7–10 days
- If you sweat at night, sleep with pets, or have allergies, aim for once a week
Pro tip: Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent to avoid irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Pillowcases: Once a Week (Or More)
Why: Pillowcases absorb oil, sweat, and bacteria from your face and hair, which can lead to breakouts or irritation if not cleaned often enough.
Best practice:
- Wash weekly, or swap in a fresh one mid-week
- If you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, wash or change your pillowcase every few days
Duvet Covers: Every 2–4 Weeks
Why: While your duvet or comforter isn’t in direct contact with your skin, the cover still collects dust, skin cells, and sweat over time.
Best practice:
- Wash every 2–4 weeks
- If you don’t use a top sheet, wash it closer to every 2 weeks
Pillows and Comforters: Every 3–6 Months
Why: Even with a cover, pillows and duvets can harbor dust mites, allergens, and bacteria deep within the material.
Best practice:
- Wash pillows and comforters seasonally (every 3–6 months)
- Check the care label to make sure your items are machine washable
Bonus tips:
- Protect your pillow and comforter with organic cotton protectors to reduce how often they need deep cleaning.
- Place your pillow and bedding in direct sunlight
Mattress Protectors: Every 1–2 Months
Why: Mattress protectors shield your mattress from moisture, allergens, and buildup — but they still need regular care to stay effective.
Best practice:
- Wash every 1–2 months, or more often if someone is sick or sweating heavily at night
Why It Matters (Especially for Sensitive Sleepers)
Washing your bedding regularly:
- Reduces exposure to allergens and dust mites
- Keeps your skin cleaner and helps prevent irritation
- Extends the life of your mattress and bedding
- Supports better sleep by creating a fresh, comfortable environment
The Natural Cleaning and Deodorizing Benefits of Sunlight
Sunning your pillows, comforters, protectors, and mattress toppers is an easy and effective way to freshen them up between washes. Simply placing these items outside in direct sunlight for a few hours can:
- Kill bacteria, dust mites, and mold spores with UV exposure
- Neutralize odors caused by moisture or long-term use
- Draw out excess moisture, especially helpful for items that are harder to wash
- Brighten whites naturally without bleach
- Reduce allergens, supporting better sleep and cleaner air
Sun-drying is especially beneficial for items made with natural materials like cotton, wool, or latex, helping you keep them fresh without over-washing.
Be sure to always check care labels, and avoid prolonged sun exposure on dyed fabrics that may fade.
Want to Make Cleaning Easier?
Stick with natural, breathable fabrics like organic cotton, which are easier to wash and gentler on skin. At My Green Mattress, we offer bedding essentials made with GOTS-certified organic materials that are free from harsh chemicals and built to last through many washes.
