Can you wash bedding at 30 degrees
Short answer: Yes, you can, and modern detergents do a good job at low temperatures. For everyday use, 30 or 40 degrees is often enough, while 60 degrees may be relevant after illness, with dust mite allergy or for very soiled bedding.
What 30 degrees can handle
Most of the dirt in bedding is sweat, skin oil and skin cells. Modern detergents contain enzymes designed to work at low temperatures and break down exactly that kind of soiling. At 30 degrees, bedding therefore comes out clean in the everyday sense, and the fabric wears less than at high temperatures. Colours also last longer, and the machine uses less electricity for each wash.
When a higher temperature makes sense
If someone in the household has been ill, or there is an allergy to house dust mites, 60 degrees is often recommended. Mites cannot survive that heat, and germs from illness are removed more thoroughly. This only applies if the fabric can take it, though. Check the care label before turning the temperature up. If you have allergies or questions about infection, talk to your doctor about what suits your situation.
Bedding in bamboo viscose
Bamboo viscose is a soft material that does best at moderate temperatures. Many makers recommend 30 or 40 degrees for viscose, because high heat can make the fibres shrink and lose their sheen. Use a mild detergent and a gentle programme, and let the bedding air dry or dry on low heat. See home and homewear in bamboo.
Getting the most from a low temperature
Do not fill the machine completely. Duvet covers are large and need to move freely to be washed and rinsed properly. Button up the cover so pillowcases and other items do not crawl inside it. Use the amount of detergent stated on the pack for your water hardness. Too little gives a poor wash, too much stays in the fabric. Shake the bedding out well when it comes out of the drum.
How often should bedding be washed
A common rule of thumb is every week or every other week. If you sweat a lot at night, or the summer weather is warm, it is a good idea to change at least the pillowcase more often. Between washes, it helps to leave the duvet folded back in the morning so moisture can escape before the bed is made.
Nightwear in the same load
The clothes you sleep in can go in with the bedding if the colours match. A light tank top or a soft T-shirt for the night then gets the same gentle treatment at 30 or 40 degrees. See bamboo tank top for men and bamboo T-shirts for men.
Frequently asked questions
Does 30 degrees kill bacteria
Not all of them, but detergent and rinsing remove most. After illness, 60 degrees is often used if the fabric allows it.
Can viscose bedding be washed at 60 degrees
Follow the care label. Many recommend 30 or 40 degrees for viscose to avoid shrinking.
Does bedding need fabric softener
It is not necessary. Viscose is soft already, and softener can build up in the fibres.
See our range of Nordic Weaving bedding.
