How to Care for Your Bedding?

Written by Zulekha Nishad

Last Updated August 28, 2024

Think about your bedding. What are some of the accessories that make it up? Chances are, you have a mattress, pillows, sheets, blankets, and maybe a comforter or duvet. All of these components need to be cared for in order to ensure a good night's sleep and to prolong their lives. In this blog post, we will discuss in detail how to care for your bedding. We will also provide tips on how to get rid of common stains and odors. Let's get started!

how to care for your bedding? - ultimate guide

Did you know that your bed could be making you sick? It's true! If you don't regularly clean your bedding, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria and dust mites. These tiny creatures can cause a variety of health problems, including asthma, allergies, and even skin infections.

latex mattress

Those with asthma and allergies can trigger or worsen symptoms by sleeping on dirty bedding. More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies each year. But even if you're not part of this group, you may experience a stuffy nose and sneezing after a night's sleep if your bedding isn't clean.

How can you take care of your bedding the right way?

By following what's discussed below, you can keep your bedroom looking and smelling fresh for years to come - without ever having to worry about getting sick from a dirty pillowcase or spending too much on new sheets.

1. Sheets and pillowcases

Taking care of bed sheets and pillowcases is important for three reasons: preventing wrinkles, getting rid of dirt and stains, and prolonging their life.

The best way to prevent wrinkles is to smooth them out as soon as you make the bed. This can be a tedious task, but it's worth it in the long run. If you have time, you can also iron your bed sheets and pillowcases.

A woman making up bed after washing sheets and pillows

Washing your sheets and pillowcases frequently will help remove dust, dirt, or any allergens that have accumulated on them. Not sure how to wash them the right way? It's pretty easy!

Soak them in detergent and warm water for a couple of minutes before you put them to wash. And if your sheets have delicate trims, lace, or embroideries, you have to be extra careful not to damage them. So, make sure you check the label for washing instructions.

Washing your sheets and pillowcases regularly is essential, but it's just as important to make sure they're completely dry before you store them away.

Damp bedding is the perfect place for mold and mildew to thrive, so it's worth taking the extra time to make sure they're thoroughly dry. One way to do this is to pop them in the dryer for a few hours, or if you're short on time, try hanging them in direct sunlight. Either way, once they're dry, give them a good iron - it'll help to keep them crisp and prolong their lifespan.

2. Pillows

Pillows play a vital role in helping you achieve a good night's rest. Not only do they provide support for your head and neck, but they also help to keep your spine aligned. As a result, it's important to take care of your pillows and replace them when necessary.

For starters, you should fluff them up every day to prevent them from getting too flat. You should also vacuum them regularly to remove dust and other allergens.

Once a week, you should also take the time to air them out in the sun for a few hours. This will help to kill any bacteria that might be lurking on the fabric.

Finally, be sure to wash your pillows to keep them clean and fresh. Usually, they have to be dry-cleaned, which can be a hassle and an expense. But some pillows can be cleaned at home. You could follow the care instructions on the label or simply hand wash them in warm water with a little mild detergent.

And if you're feeling too lazy to hand wash, just throw them in the washing machine with some detergent and let it do all the work for you! Again, make sure whether or not your pillow is machine washable.

By following these simple tips, you can help your pillows stay plump and comfortable for years to come.

3. Duvets

Duvets are an essential part of any bedding setup. Not only do they provide warmth and comfort, but they also add a touch of style to your bed.

A duvet is a thick bed cover, typically filled with down or other soft material, that can last for years with proper care. However, one way to help ensure that your duvet will indeed stand the test of time is to use a cover. Just as you would use a pillowcase to protect your pillows from daily wear and tear, a duvet cover can help to keep your duvet clean and free from dirt and debris.

You all know that sheets should be washed regularly, but what about the duvet cover? And what about the duvet itself? Well, the answer may surprise you. Duvet covers can be washed just as often as sheets, but the duvet itself should not be washed too often. In fact, washing the duvet too frequently can damage the fill and shorten its lifespan.

Machine wash or hand wash the duvet cover whenever you wash your sheets. And the duvet needs to be professionally laundered twice a year.

A baby girl lying comfortably on a fresh and cozy bed

  • How to wash your duvets?

    Before washing your duvet, take off the cover. Spread it out as much as possible in the machine. If it is hard to fit into the machine, you might want to take it to a laundromat where there is a bigger washer.

    Next, put two tennis balls in a clean sock and tie them so that they won't come out. Put them in the washer along with your duvet to help remove dirt, body oils, and sweat.

    Use about half of the recommended amount of soap and pour it into the machine's detergent dispenser. Also, make sure you avoid using liquid softener and bleach, and don't pour the detergent directly on the bedding itself.

    Put your duvet in the washer and set it to a mild, warm cycle. If your washing machine has the option, add an extra rinse and spin cycle. If soap residue or suds appear on your duvet, wash it again without detergent or put it through another rinse and spin cycle.

    After that, put the duvet in the dryer on a low or air-dry setting and wait for it to finish drying. If you don't want to use the dryer, you may leave your duvet outside to air dry on a clothesline or drying rack.

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4. Blankets

Although they may not be as delicate as your sheet sets, blankets still need to be washed on a regular basis. After all, they're the things you snuggle up with at night, and you don't want to be covered in dirt and grime.

Laundering is always an option, but if you're up for doing it yourself, machine washing is usually the way to go. Just remember to use warm water and a little detergent, and dry your blanket in a warm setting.

Thick blankets can take forever to dry. And if you don't let it dry completely, you run the risk of mildew and mold. So, make sure they're completely dry before reusing them or putting them away in storage.

When should you replace your bedding?

One of the most important things to consider when it comes to bedding is how often you should replace it. Just like any other item in your home, bedding doesn't last forever and will eventually need to be replaced. However, with proper care and maintenance, bedding can last for years.

When it comes to pillows, most experts agree that you should replace them every 1-2 years. But, of course, these same experts also say that a lot depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. However, if you're using a pillow with polyester or cheap-quality fills, you will need to replace them more often.

Duvets made of polyester and low-quality fills can start to lose their fluffiness and get flattened much earlier than those made of high-quality fills.

Similarly, certain types of bedsheets may last longer than others. For example, sheets made of higher quality materials, such as organic cotton, are more durable and will last longer than cheaper options made from polyester blends. However, it is also important to consider how often the sheets are used and washed, as this can impact their lifespan as well.

However, most of the time, you'll be able to tell when it's time to replace your bedding. If you feel like you're not getting a good night's sleep, if your bedding is making you uncomfortable, or if it just doesn't look as fresh as it used to, it might be time for new bedding. On the other hand, if your bedding is still in good condition, but you're just ready for a fresh look, don't be afraid to switch things up.

A family spending quality time in clean, comfy bedding

How do you store your bedding?

When it comes to bedding storage, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, you want to make sure that your bedding is clean and dry before you store it. This will help to prevent mildew and other damage.

Second, you want to choose a storage option that will protect your bedding from dust, insects, and other pests. An airtight container or bag is ideal.

Finally, you want to make sure that your bedding is stored in a cool, dry place. A closet or drawer is usually best. With these tips in mind, you can rest assured that your bedding will stay fresh and protected for the seasons to come.

natural and organic pillows

What better way to show your bedding some love and care than to take good care of it? By regularly washing your bedding, you'll enjoy a cleaner and more comfortable sleeping environment. Plus, it'll help prolong the life of your bedding. So, don't neglect your bedding - give it the attention it needs, and you'll be sure to reap the rewards. Are you ready to get started?

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2. How to Get Blood Out of Sheets?

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3. Why Do You Need A Mattress Protector For Your Latex Mattress?

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4. How to Get Pee Out of a Mattress

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5. How to Clean a Mattress?

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Disclaimer: What is said in this article has been referenced from multiple sources and is intended only for educational and informational purposes. Please note that no content in this article is a substitute for professional advice from a qualified doctor or healthcare provider. Always consult an experienced doctor with any concerns you may have regarding a health condition or treatment, and never disregard any medical suggestions or delay in seeking treatment because of something you read here.

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