Keeping your bedding clean is one of the simplest ways to support better sleep, reduce allergies, and maintain overall hygiene. While we wash our clothes regularly, bedding often gets overlooked—even though it collects sweat, body oils, skin cells, and dust mites every day. Establishing the right cleaning schedule ensures a healthier sleep environment and keeps your bedding fresh for longer.
This guide breaks down how often to clean every item on your bed and includes natural cleaning tips to make maintenance easier and safer.
1. Bed Sheets: Once a Week
Your sheets directly touch your skin, which means they accumulate sweat, oils, and bacteria quickly. Most experts recommend washing sheets every 7 days.
If you sweat heavily, sleep with pets, or have allergies, increase this to every 3–4 days.
2. Pillowcases: Every 3–7 Days
Pillowcases collect dirt and oils from your face and hair, making them a hotspot for acne-causing bacteria. Wash them at least weekly, or twice a week if you have sensitive skin.
3. Duvet Covers: Every 2–4 Weeks
Since duvet covers act like an outer barrier for your comforter, they do not require weekly washing. Cleaning them every 2–4 weeks keeps them fresh and reduces dust buildup.
4. Blankets and Comforters: Every 1–2 Months
These layers don’t touch your skin as directly as sheets, so they can be washed less frequently. If used daily, aim for once every 4–8 weeks. Using a duvet cover or top sheet helps extend the time between washes.
5. Pillows: Every 3–6 Months
Pillows absorb moisture and allergens over time. Most pillows (polyester, down, feather) can be safely washed in a machine every three to six months.
Replace pillows every 1–2 years, depending on quality.
6. Mattress Protectors: Every 1–2 Months
A mattress protector shields against spills, sweat, dust mites, and allergens. Wash it every 4–8 weeks to keep your mattress clean and extend its lifespan.
7. Mattress: Every 6 Months
Mattresses cannot be washed, but they benefit from semi-annual maintenance. Vacuum the surface, treat stains immediately, and air out the mattress for several hours. This reduces odors, dust mites, and moisture.
Natural Cleaning Tips
You can keep bedding fresh without harsh chemicals:
For Sheets & Pillowcases
- Wash in warm or hot water with gentle detergent.
- Add ½ cup white vinegar during the rinse cycle to soften and deodorize naturally.
For Pillows
- Add 1 cup baking soda to the wash to remove odors.
- Sun-dry pillows to naturally disinfect and restore fluff.
For Mattresses
- Sprinkle baking soda over the surface and let it sit for 4–6 hours before vacuuming.
- Lightly mist with equal parts vinegar and water to sanitize and refresh.
Final Thoughts
A consistent bedding-washing routine not only promotes better sleep but also supports a cleaner, healthier home. By understanding how each bedding item functions and how often it needs care, you can maintain freshness all year long with minimal effort.