Keep your bed fresh and clean with these expert tips.
According to Stein, cotton sheets can handle higher temperatures, which helps kill germs and dust mites.
Microfiber sheets require cooler water to prevent damage and pilling, she says.
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And microfiber needs to be washed separately to avoid fuzzies sticking or picking up hair.
Or bring them to the dry cleaners if youre able to.
However, for cotton sheets, hot water can be used occasionally for a deep clean, says Stein.
This also prevents lint transfer and excessive wrinkling, according to Stein.
If you must mix, pair them with similar materials and colors.
But remember, it is always best to wash them separately when able to, she suggests.
Precautions for Heavily Soiled Sheets or Stains
For heavily soiled sheets, pre-treat stains before washing.
Stein recommends soaking them in a mixture of water and a bit of laundry detergent or stain remover.
Consider a longer wash cycle or an extra rinse to ensure all the grime is washed away.
Some stains may require different treatments (blood, urine, etc.)
than others, so it depends on the stain.
Ensure good ventilation if using bleach or strong chemicals.
Regularly washing sheets helps reduce allergens and dust mites, promoting a healthier sleeping environment, says Stein.
Give the sheets a good shake to get rid of loose dirt or debris.
Check for any stains and treat them accordingly before loading the sheets into the washing machine.
Let it sit for about 15 minutes to break down the stain.
For stubborn stains, gently scrub with a soft brush or sponge before washing.
Avoid bleach and opt for air drying to maintain the fabrics texture.
For silk, Stein recommends hand washing or using a delicate cycle with cold water and a mild detergent.
Avoid wringing out silk; instead, gently press out excess water and lay flat to dry.
No, Stein does not recommend using fabric softener when washing sheets.
Fabric softener can leave a residue that reduces the absorbency of natural fibers.
Instead, try adding vinegar to the rinse cycle for a natural softening effect.
Also, avoid fabric softener for microfiber sheets to maintain their performance.
For stains, you want to act quickly.
Use a pre-treatment stain remover, a bar of Dial soap, or even Dawn dish soap.
Apply to the stain, let it sit, and then wash as usual, suggests Stein.
For tougher stains, soak in a solution of oxygen bleach before washing, if your fabric allows that.
Yes, it is preferred to air-dry your sheets.
They will last longer, have less wrinkles, and it’s safer for fabrics with no heat.
