Answers to all your questions about spring cleaning your bedroom
Allergies acting up this season? Have a pet that sleeps in your bed with you? In our latest installment of our Spring Into Action series with our friends at Sleep Number, we’re tackling some important questions about spring cleaning your bedroom.
We turned to the bedding experts at Sleep Number for some information on how often you should be washing your sheets, when you should replace your pillow and more!
KCM: How often should you actually wash your sheets?
Eight hours a night in the same bedding equates to almost 60 hours a week. That’s a long time for anything that comes into direct contact with your skin, so ideally sheets should be washed once a week to get rid of allergens like dust mites, dead skin cells and bodily fluids like sweat.
What about your duvet cover? What happens if you don’t wash it enough — how can that impact your sleep and in turn, your immunity?
If you use a top sheet, your duvet cover can probably go a little longer (two to three weeks) without being washed, since it doesn’t directly touch your skin. But if you have a pet that sleeps with you or don’t use a top sheet, consider washing your duvet more often to get rid of dirt and other things that can irritate your skin or lead to allergies.
Too many dust mites can cause nasal congestion, cough, watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing – all of which make it hard to sleep well.
How often should you wash your pillow? What collects in your pillow over time if you don’t wash it?
The average pillow doubles in weight in the first two years. Dust, saliva, sweat, pollen, skin and hair can collect inside your pillowcase and the build-up of dead skin cells and dust mites can cause allergen issues.
We do not recommend washing your pillow. Every time a pillow is washed it deteriorates the fill inside, causing it to bunch and feel different. Rather, we recommend using a pillow protector to extend the life of your pillow.
You don’t wash your mattress because the mattress protector and sheets protect it. A pillow should be treated with the same care and be protected by a pillow protector. You should wash your pillow protector when you wash your sheets.
How often should you replace your pillows?
Replace your pillow every two years. Also, it’s good practice to buy new pillows every time you purchase a mattress.
How can a bedroom that hasn’t been cleaned affect your sleep?
Clutter, dust, dirt can actually contribute to anxiety, stress and a feeling of disorganization. A clean bedroom can help you feel calm and relaxed, which helps you get a better night’s sleep. A dirty smelling room can also distract you from falling asleep. Essential oils such as lavender can help your room smell fresh and clean and ease you into sleep.
What’s something surprising people should know about cleaning your bedroom?
A National Sleep Foundation survey found seven in ten people agree that they get a more comfortable night’s sleep on sheets with a fresh scent.
Also, people who make their bed every morning are 19% more likely to get a good night’s sleep every night according to Good Housekeeping.
Need some new bedding? Enter for a chance to win one Sleep Number Bedding Bundle valued at $325.95. Sweepstakes prize includes: Two (2) Cotton Pillow Protectors in Classic/Standard size; Two (2) Plush Comfort Pillows in Classic/Standard size; and One (1) Queen Essential Down Alternative Comforter, White. Sweepstakes runs 3/22/21-4/2/21. *image does not show the pillow and pillow protector.
