Mattress experts are sharing insights on just how often Britons should be changing their bedding, as thousands could be sleeping in a build up of sweat and dust-mites.
The mattress specialists at WinstonsBeds say building a better bedding washing routine is essential in the run up to the warmer months.
Failing to wash bedding often enough can lead to a build-up of bacteria, oils and dead skin cells.
Hay fever sufferers who aren’t washing their bedding enough could be making their symptoms worse, as dust mites and pollen can build up on bedding.
The experts also stress that clean bedding is an essential part of a healthy sleep routine, so optimum bed hygiene could actually help Britons get a good night’s sleep.
Rebecca Swain, a mattress expert at WinstonsBeds.com said: “If you’re getting the optimum eight hours of sleep a night, that means you’re in your bed for a total of 56 hours in just one week.
“Spending this amount of time in dirty bedding can lead to unpleasant odours, worsened allergies, acne break outs and poor sleep quality.
“While so many are taking part in spring cleaning, it might be time to consider a new washing schedule for your bedding.
“As the temperatures continue to rise, it is even more important to prioritise bed hygiene and make sure you aren’t harbouring germs, dead skin and oils.
“Many Brits may also be thinking of changing their winter duvet over to a thinner one for summer. Use this opportunity to give your duvet a wash too.
“Duvets in particular are often overlooked when doing a deep clean or a simple bedding wash but the truth is they need a good clean every once in a while too.”
Here are tips from WinstonsBeds.com on improving bed hygiene:
- Pillowcases
Pillowcases should be washed once per week. Our pillowcases come into contact with our faces and hair every night, so regular washing is essential. Letting bacteria, oils and dead skin cells build up on your pillowcases can lead to breakouts of acne and an unhealthy sleep environment.
- Duvets
Duvets don’t need to be washed as frequently as your sheets and pillowcases, but to maintain good bed hygiene you should aim to wash them every six months or so. But if you have been ill or you suffer from allergies, you may need to wash your duvet more frequently to reduce allergens and keep your bed germ-free.
- Mattresses
Cleaning your mattress is essential to extend its lifespan and keep on top of hygiene. Every six months it is worth deep cleaning your mattress by vacuuming and spot cleaning, using warm water and soap. You can also help to maintain the condition of your mattress by flipping it every three to six months.
- Throws or blankets
You may not think the blanket on the end of your bed needs washing regularly, especially if it is used for decoration, but they can still harbour dust and pollen. If you have pets in your home or you suffer from allergies it is worth washing blankets and throws once a month to help remove pet hair, dust and allergens from your bedroom.
- Mattress protectors
For optimum bed hygiene, you should wash your mattress protector every two months. This can help to reduce a build-up of sweat and dead skin cells on your bed.
