The myth that bedding only needs changing once a month
Short answer: Bedding should be changed more often than once a month. Most recommendations say every week or every other week, because sheets and covers absorb sweat, skin cells and skin oils every single night. How often also depends on the season and your own habits.
What builds up in the bed
We spend around a third of our lives in bed. Every night the body releases sweat, skin cells and skin oils, which sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers absorb. Over time the fabric becomes heavier and greyer and may start to smell. Dust mites feed on skin flakes and thrive in warm, damp beds. That is why changing your bedding regularly makes a difference, even when it does not look dirty at first glance or feel any different.
How often is reasonable
Many recommendations suggest changing bedding every week or every other week. If you sweat a lot at night, sleep with pets in the bed or it is summer, changing more often can make sense. Pillowcases are worth changing more frequently than the rest, because your face and hair are in close contact with them. If you have allergies or skin problems, talk to your doctor about what is right for you and your situation.
The material affects the feel
Bedding in fabrics that absorb moisture well can feel more comfortable through the night. Cotton and viscose both take up moisture, while synthetic fabrics hold less of it. Whatever the material, bedding needs to be washed regularly. Bamboo bedding is soft and smooth, and it benefits from a wash at a moderate temperature followed by air drying, so it keeps its softness for a long time and holds its shape well too.
Nightwear and underwear count as well
What you wear in bed also affects how quickly the bedding gets dirty. A clean layer of nightwear takes up some of the sweat and skin oil, so the sheet stays fresh a little longer. A bamboo undershirt for women can work as a light night layer. During your period, period underwear can be a reassuring option at night that also reduces the risk of stains on the sheet underneath you.
How to wash bedding
Most cotton sheets and covers tolerate 60 degrees, while viscose and blends often need washing at 40 degrees. Read the care label. Do not overload the machine, since large pieces of fabric need room to rinse properly. Do not use too much detergent, and leave out the fabric softener. Let the bedding dry completely before folding it away, so that no damp or musty smell develops in the cupboard where you store it.
A simple routine
Keep at least two sets of bedding, so you can change without waiting for the wash. Air the duvet and pillow when you change, ideally outdoors or by an open window. Shake out the duvet in the morning, but leave the bed open for a while so the moisture can escape. With a fixed weekly or fortnightly routine, changing the bed becomes a natural habit rather than an annoying chore you keep putting off.
Frequently asked questions
How often should the duvet itself be washed
Many people wash their duvet and pillow a couple of times a year. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer, as different fillings have different needs.
Should pillowcases be changed more often
Ideally yes. Many people change pillowcases a couple of times a week, especially with oily skin or hair.
Does airing the bed in the morning help
Yes. Leaving the bed open lets the moisture from the night escape and makes conditions less favourable for dust mites.
See our range of Nordic Weaving bedding.
