Washing bamboo bedding

Short answer: Wash at 40 degrees on a normal programme, without fabric softener, and close buttons and zips first. That way bamboo bed linen lasts for many years, and you avoid the most common mistakes in the machine.

Before the wash

Close all buttons and zips. An open cover catches everything else in the drum and comes out as a lump with socks and T-shirts inside. Turn the cover inside out and watch the envelope closure, so nothing slips in. It takes a moment and saves you an annoying clean-up afterwards.

The wash itself

40 degrees is enough for normal use and can be washed on a normal programme. Do not set the temperature higher unless there is a reason. If you have a fixed day for bed linen, you can wash everything together: duvet cover, sheet and pillowcase. See bamboo bedding if you need a spare set.

60 degrees for allergies

If there is an allergy in the house, you can wash at 60 degrees if the label allows it. Always check the care instructions in the product itself before you turn it up. Bamboo viscose does not tolerate everything, and the label has the last word. If you do it often, watch whether the fabric changes and go down in temperature if it does.

Skip the fabric softener

Fabric softener leaves a film on the fabric that makes it less absorbent. For bamboo, which should feel dry and move moisture along, that is a poor idea. Use only a mild detergent and let the machine rinse with clean water. That way the fabric keeps its softness and its ability to take up moisture over many washes.

Mild detergent

Choose a mild detergent without bleach. Do not overdose, because residue in the fabric can make it stiff. Follow the dosage on the pack and adjust it to how full the drum is. A machine that is filled with moderation leaves room for the water to flow around the covers and rinse them properly.

After the wash

Shake the cover out firmly before you hang it up. That removes most creases, so you avoid ironing. Hang it up smooth and let it dry completely before it goes on the bed. That way the bed linen looks fresh and tidy, and you save both time and electricity.

Can you tumble dry it

On low heat yes, but a line or a rack is gentler on the fabric. If you tumble dry, take the cover out while it is still slightly damp and shake it out. That way you avoid the worst creases. High heat is not good for the fabric, so choose the lowest setting on your machine.

Why everything ends up inside the cover

Because the opening works like a bag in the drum. Anything loose slips in and stays there for the whole wash. Close the closure before washing and check the cover before you hang it up. That way there are no surprises, and you do not have to fish socks out afterwards.

How often to wash bed linen

For most people every second week. With allergies, wash weekly and use 60 degrees if the label allows it. If you have several sets in rotation, the washing is easier to plan. See bamboo sheets and bamboo pillowcases if you want to add more pieces to the set.