Keeping your bedroom clean isn’t just for show – your sleep depends on it. Over time, dead skin cells, dander, dust mites, and other allergens collect on your bedding, causing irritation, congestion, and other disruptions to your normal sleep cycles. For a better night’s sleep, keep your sleep surfaces fresh with our expert cleaning tips.
Mattress Cleaning
It may sound daunting, but you should deep clean your mattress twice a year to remove the allergens that form on its surface. To perform a deep cleaning, strip the bedding and vacuum the entire surface with an upholstery attachment. Spot treat any stains with a solution of warm water and dish detergent and sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface to deodorize. Leave the baking soda on for as long as possible before vacuuming it up. Remember to change your mattress after five to 10 years.
Washing Sheets
Because they come in direct contact with your skin, it’s important to wash sheets at least every two weeks. Different materials might have different guidelines, but you should generally wash polyester blends in warm water and cottons in hot water. Check the care label for the best results. If possible, hang the sheets outside to dry, as sunlight kills any remaining germs and brightens white sheets. If that isn’t possible, dry them on medium heat.
Pillow Washing
Fluff your pillow daily to remove any dust, and hang it outside for a few hours every month to air it out. If that isn’t possible, fluff it in the dryer on a no-heat cycle. To reduce unnecessary wear, wash pillows only a couple of times a year. Foam and synthetic-filled pillows can go in the washing machine on the gentle cycle, but down and feather-filled pillows need to be hand washed. To hand wash, submerge the pillow in a large basin with warm water and mild detergent. Gently knead it to wash, then roll it in a towel to soak up all the water. Keep your pillows clean to avoid frequent changing. With vigilant washing, you can change your pillows from six months to three years.
Washing a Duvet Cover And Duvet
Wash your duvet or comforter every two to three months to keep it fresh. First, check the label, as some duvets must be dry cleaned. If yours is machine washable, shake off any loose feathers and fold it in half before placing it in the washing machine. Wash on a normal cycle, and air dry outside, if possible. If drying outside isn’t an option, let it air dry inside, and then run a warm iron over it to kill any lingering micro-organisms.
Keeping Pajamas Clean
Like your bed sheets, pajamas come in direct contact with your skin every night. They also collect skin cells and bacteria, yet few people wash their pajamas regularly. To get rid of bacteria, launder according to the tag instructions every three days.
Washing your bedding is especially important during the summer, as hotter weather can fuel fungus growth. During these months, consider washing once a week to allow for a fresh, clean sleep.