As the nights get warmer and the days get longer, your bedding turns into an arena of sweat, dust, skin cells, and (if you're one of those who likes to "snack" in bed) even bread crumbs. It's time for a refresh! So - how to wash your bedding.
In the summer months it is bedding under even more pressure than usual. High temperatures mean more sweating, more humidity and more bacterial joy. If you've ever been embarrassed to admit that your white sheets now look like a soft beige version of themselves, you're not alone. And more importantly – there's a solution that doesn't involve bleach, expensive cleaners or panicked calls to your mom. So – how to wash your sheets.
Why you need to wash your bedding more often in the summer (and not just because your grandma says so)
Your bedding is essentially your personal wellness center—but only if it's clean. In the summer, your skin gets oily faster, you sweat more (even if you don't admit it), and dust mites are practically in full swing during the summer season. The fabric becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and everything else you'd rather not put on your skin, let alone your face.
Dermatologists recommend washing bedding at least once a week in the warmer months. If you are among those with sensitive skin, allergies or simply like to be wrapped in fragrant freshness – then this is the minimum. Those who fall asleep with wet hair? You are a special category – wash more often. No offense.
The trick they don't teach in school - washing your bed linens naturally but effectively
Forget about industrial bleaches and artificial fragrances that smell like "ocean breeze" but end up sounding like a hospital cleaning. Use tried-and-true household heroes for summer freshness:
Ingridients:
- 1 cup white vinegar (no, your bed won't smell like lettuce)
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 tablespoon natural detergent or castile soap
- 10 drops of lavender or lemongrass essential oil (for that “spa feeling”)
- hot tap water (or as much as the fabric can handle)
Vinegar disinfects and softens, baking soda removes odors, and essential oils make it smell like your favorite massage room. If you use a natural detergent, your fabric will be grateful too – and your skin won't be irritated.
Process:
- Separate sheets, covers and duvets – each has its own needs.
- Wash them on maximum permissible temperature, ideally at least 60°C (or higher if the fabric allows).
- Add natural ingredients to the drum – no fabric softeners!
- Add as desired another rinse cycleto remove all traces of detergent. No one wants to fall asleep in suds.
Drying: more than just “throw it in the dryer”
If you have a dryer – great. Use a low heat setting and add dryer balls (or clean tennis balls) to keep your bedding as fluffy as freshly whipped cream. If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony or garden, sun-dried – UV rays act as a natural bleach and disinfectant. Plus, your bedding will smell like summer, not the machine.
Tip: always make sure everything is completely drybefore you fold. Moisture is mold's best friend – and your hygiene's worst enemy.
How often do you wash your bedding in the summer?
| Bedding | Recommended washing in summer |
|---|---|
| Sheets and covers | 1x per week |
| Protective covers | 1x every 2 weeks |
| Blankets/quilts (if you use them) | 1x per month |
| Cushions and pillows | 1x every 2–3 months |
If you sleep with a partner (or a pet), increase the frequency. Two bodies = twice the sweat. (And no, a dog doesn't count as a fragrant addition to the bed.)
Bonus tips for a fresh bed all summer long
- Air out your bedroom every day., especially in the morning.
- Don't sleep with wet hair., unless a dance experiment smells like a scientific career to you.
- Shake the sheets every dayto prevent the accumulation of dust and crumbs.
- Invest in protective covers, which are washable and prevent sweat from reaching the mattress.
Final thought: How to wash bed linens – simply and without mom
Bedding is your most intimate textile – it’s closer to you than most people. And if you treat it with the same attention as your skin this summer, it will return the favor: with a sleep that smells like a fresh start. With a few tricks, the warmth of the sun and the right mix of home-made ingredients, your sleep can become luxurious – even without a five-star hotel. Although, let’s be honest, with a fragrant bed and the right music, you can create five stars right at home.
If you want, I can prepare more. infographic with step-by-step washing instructions or short checklist for a quick summer washIs there anything else you would like to post?
