Most people don’t wash their sheets nearly often enough — and the consequences go beyond just feeling a bit grubby. Dust mites, dead skin cells, sweat and oils build up surprisingly quickly, even if the sheets look clean.
How Often Should You Actually Wash Them?
The general recommendation from dermatologists and sleep experts is every 1–2 weeks for most people. But depending on your lifestyle, you may need to wash them more often.
“If you sweat heavily, have pets on the bed, or suffer from allergies or eczema — weekly washing isn’t just recommended, it’s essential.”
Who Should Wash More Often?
1. Allergy and asthma sufferers
Dust mites are one of the most common allergy triggers — and they thrive in bedding. Washing sheets weekly in hot water (60°C+) kills dust mites and removes allergens significantly better than a cold wash.
2. People who sweat heavily at night
Night sweats accelerate the build-up of moisture, oils and bacteria in your sheets. If you regularly wake up damp, wash weekly at minimum — and consider moisture-wicking sheets.
3. Pet owners
If your pet sleeps on your bed, weekly washing is essential. Pets carry dander, dirt and bacteria — and their fur embeds quickly into fabric.
4. Anyone who sleeps naked or without showering first
More body contact with the sheets means faster build-up of oils and dead skin. Weekly washing is the right call.
What Temperature Should You Wash Sheets At?
- 40°C — Standard weekly wash; removes sweat and oils effectively
- 60°C — Best for allergy sufferers; kills dust mites
- Cold (20–30°C) — Only for delicate or coloured sheets where heat is a risk
Always check the care label — some sheet fabrics (like silk or bamboo) require cooler temperatures.
Tips for Keeping Sheets Fresher Between Washes
- Shower before bed to reduce oil and bacteria transfer
- Air your bedding daily — pull back the covers each morning for 30 minutes
- Have a spare set so you can change without waiting for the wash to finish
- Use a mattress protector — it’s much easier to wash than a mattress
What About Doonas and Pillows?
Pillowcases need washing every week. The pillow itself should be washed every 3–6 months. Doonas (depending on type) every 3–6 months too, or more often if you sweat heavily — though they’re tricky to wash at home given their size and weight.
If you don’t have a machine large enough for your doona, or you simply don’t want to deal with the hassle — that’s exactly what we’re here for. At Fluff n Fold, we wash, dry and fold your sheets, pillowcases and doonas with care, returning them fresh and neatly folded to your door.
