Proper care of bedding will significantly extend its lifespan and ensure a hygienic sleeping environment. Sheets and pillowcases should be washed every 1-2 weeks, while duvets and pillows need washing less frequently. Materials such as cotton, linen, silk and down require different care, and the choice of washing temperature directly affects the durability of textiles.
How often should bed linens be washed?
It is recommended to wash sheets and pillowcases every 1-2 weeks, as they collect skin cells, sweat and dust mites. Blankets and pillows, on the other hand, last longer – pillows should be washed every 3-4 months and blankets twice a year. In the summer, when there is more sweating, the frequency of washing sheets can increase to weekly.
The seasons affect the need to wash your bedding. In the warmer months, textiles get dirty faster, and regular washing is especially important for allergy sufferers. In the winter, when the air is drier, you can extend the washing intervals slightly. However, remember to air your bedding regularly between washing days – this reduces moisture and keeps the materials fresher for longer.
At what temperature should you wash bed linen?
Cotton sheets can withstand washing at 60°C , which effectively kills bacteria and dust mites. More delicate materials require lower temperatures: linen 40°C, silk 30°C by hand and down 30-40°C with a special detergent. Oeko-Tex certified products, such as Hotel Luxus and Høie series sheets, are designed to withstand regular washing at the recommended temperatures.
The choice of detergent is as important as the temperature. Choose mild, unscented detergents for delicate materials and a special detergent for down products that preserves the airiness of the filling. Avoid bleaching agents, as they weaken the fibers and shorten the life of the bedding. Microfiber products, such as Hotel Luxus pillows and blankets, are washed at 60°C without special detergents, making them practical and easy to care for.
How do different materials require different care?
Cotton satin can withstand washing at 60°C and tumble drying at low heat. A medium temperature is sufficient for ironing. Linen improves with use and withstands washing well, but it is recommended to dry on a flat surface and iron damp. Silk requires the most gentle care – hand washing with silk detergent and drying flat in the shade will preserve the fineness of the material.
Microfiber is a very easy-care material that dries quickly and does not require ironing. Down products, such as Quilts of Denmark, should be aired regularly and washed at a laundromat or at home with down detergent. Memory foam pillows are not machine washable – clean them superficially and always use a pillow protector. Store all bedding in a dry, ventilated space, and avoid long-term storage in plastic bags, which can cause moisture and mold problems.
What mistakes should you avoid when caring for bedding?
The most common care mistakes significantly shorten the life of your bedding. Washing at too high a temperature damages delicate materials like silk and down, while using the wrong detergent can weaken the fibers. An overfilled washing machine prevents textiles from getting cleaned properly and causes excess friction, which wears out fabrics.
Excessive use of fabric softener leaves a film on textiles, which reduces breathability and can cause skin irritation. Improper drying – such as drying down on a flat surface instead of tumble drying it with a tennis ball – leads to clumping of the filling. Always store bedding in a dry and ventilated area. You can explore high-quality, easy-care bedding at our Helsinki showroom , where our staff will help you choose the right products for you for long-lasting use.
