It makes sense: we spend around a third of our lives sleeping, and we inevitably leave sweat, skin flakes and other body residue on our bed linen. Regular washing is therefore not only a question of hygiene, but also ensures better sleeping comfort. But how do you wash fitted sheets correctly so that they retain their fit, elasticity and color? With the right care tips, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your fitted sheets and ensure restful nights in fresh bed linen.
How often should fitted sheets be washed?
Before we look at the washing methods, the question arises as to the correct washing frequency. As a rule, you should change them every two to three weeks. If you sweat a lot, have skin problems or allergies, you should even wash them weekly. In summer, when we sweat more at night, it is logical to change them more frequently than in cooler seasons.
Regular cleaning not only prevents the build-up of mites and bacteria, but also keeps you feeling fresh when you go to bed. In addition, body oils and sweat can attack the fibers of your fitted sheet over time, shortening its lifespan.
The right wash cycle: temperature and program
Choosing the right washing temperature and program for your washing machine depends on the material of your fitted sheet. Always check the care label before washing to follow the manufacturer’s specific recommendations.
As a general guideline:
- Cotton fitted sheetsThese robust classics can usually be washed at 60°C without any problems. This temperature reliably kills bacteria and mites and thoroughly removes sweat and skin oils.
- Microfiber and syntheticsThese materials should be washed at lower temperatures (30-40°C) and on a gentle cycle to maintain their elasticity.
- Jersey fitted sheetThe popular, stretchy jersey sheets made of cotton can usually withstand 40-60°C.
- Satin and silkThese fine materials require special care and should only be washed at 30°C on a delicate wash program.
For colored fitted sheets, use a color detergent 🛒 without optical brighteners to prevent fading. For white sheets, use a heavy-duty detergent that refreshes the white tones. You should avoid using fabric softener as it reduces the absorbency of the material and can leave behind residues that can cause skin irritation.
Mastering special challenges
Fitted sheets sometimes present us with special challenges that require special treatment:
Stubborn stainsAlways treat stains immediately. Pre-treat sweat stains with gall soap or a stain remover. Blood stains should first be rinsed out with cold water – warm water fixes the blood in the fabric. For stubborn stains, soaking in water with a splash of lemon juice or baking soda can help.
Yellowed white sheetsSometimes a wash cycle with a cup of white vinegar instead of fabric softener helps against yellowing. Alternatively, you can soak the sheets in hot water with a solution of baking soda before washing them normally.
Decreasing elasticityIf the elastic in your fitted sheet starts to give way, wash it at a lower temperature and do not tumble dry it. Heat is the main enemy of elasticity.
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Correct drying for a long shelf life
After washing, proper drying is crucial for the longevity of your fitted sheets: Most cotton fitted sheets can be dried in the dryer at a low to medium temperature. However, take them out while they are still slightly damp to avoid excessive shrinkage and creasing. Synthetic materials and delicate fabrics such as silk should be left to air dry.
Hanging on the washing line should be done in such a way that the fitted sheet is stretched as little as possible. Fold it once in the middle and then hang it over the line. You should avoid direct sunlight on colored sheets as they can fade.
By the way: If you fold your fitted sheets immediately after drying or pull them onto the bed, you can often do without ironing. If creases do remain, a quick pass over with an iron at a low to medium temperature is sufficient for most materials.
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Source: fragteamclean
