How Often Should You Replace Bed Sheets?

Article published at: Sep 26, 2023 Article author: Sharon Huang
How Often Should You Replace Bed Sheets?
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Why should we replace bed sheets with new ones?

Just like your t-shirt, it will finally be worn and torn day on some day. And bed sheets accumulate sweat, oils, dead skin cells, and dust mites, which results in allergies. Furthermore, sleeping on clean, fresh sheets can enhance the quality of your sleep. The tactile sensation of soft, clean fabric can promote relaxation and help you fall asleep faster. 

How long should we replace old bed sheets with new ones?

Depending on the material and frequency of use, the replacement time will vary. Experts recommend replacing it every 2-3 years if you use it every day. Of course, this does not mean that your sheets will break down in 2-3 years. But if it is high-grade cotton or linen, the period can be extended. Knowing when to get new bedding sets can minimize the occurrence of allergies. Of course knowing how often to change your bed sheets will also do the same.

Unlike bed sheets and quilt covers, quilt inserts can last up to 5-25 years. It depends on the filling material and sewing technology of the quilt core, as well as the frequency of use.

What affects the frequency of getting new bed sheets?

1. How often you use your sheets.

If you often go traveling rather than sleep at home, you can replace your sheets 3-5 years later. If you use the same sheets every day, you need to change them more frequently.

2. The fabric of your bed sheets

Although linen sheets have naturally antibacterial properties, they still need to be washed regularly. However, each wash means your sheets are more likely to wrinkle. If you don't want to spend too much budget on linen sheets, your linen sheets won't last very long. Linen sheets should be used for a maximum of 5 years.

bamboo sheets

Bamboo sheets also have anti-microbial properties and can effectively resist dust mites, human secretions, and bacteria. With proper care, bamboo sheets can last up to 6 years.

cotton sheets

Cotton sheets are recommended to be replaced every 2-3 years. Bamboo sheets have a longer lifespan due to bamboo's anti-microorganism and the material's weave strength.

3. The way you store your bed sheets

If your bed sheets are stored well, folded, and placed in a dry place, it can extend its life.

Signs to get new bedding sets

  1. If your sheets start to pill, develop tears or holes, or become stained with body oils and sweat, it's a sign that they should be replaced.
  2. If you smell any type of mold, mildew or fungus, or other unpleasant odors on your sheets and they don’t go away after washing, it’s time to throw them away
  3. If your sheets aren't as soft and luxurious as when you bought them, it's time to buy new ones.
  4. Change the sheets when you see mold, bacteria, or stains from body secretions.

bed sheet smell bad

FAQ

Q: How to extend your bed sheet life span?

1. Buy the right fabric

Long-staple cotton is higher quality and more comfortable to the touch than short-staple cotton. Short-staple cotton sheets are more likely to pill.

High thread count tends to contain more cotton, so it is also stronger

 2. Avoid high temperature washing and dryer

Remember to wash your bed sheets in cold water.

Only wash one set of sheets at a time to prevent wrinkles.

3.Use mild detergent

Try to avoid using bleach.

 Q: Which cotton is best for sheets?

Egyptian Cotton is grown in Egypt which has a very long growing season, which allows the cotton fibers to become quite a bit longer than in more mild climates. These longer fibers allow the sheets to last longer, and allow it to be very soft after a few washings, though they tend to feel stiff right out of the package.

 Q: What is recommended for bed sheets, cotton, linen, or tencel?

While Tencel is not as popular as cotton or linen when it comes to bed sheets and other types of bedding, it is definitely an option out there, and as a consumer, you should know the difference between these sheets to pick the right option.

 Cotton Sheet

 Without a doubt, cotton is one of the most loved and used fabrics for bedding. The following features make cotton a favorite for millions.

 - Breathable

 - Lightweight

 - Easy to source

 - Affordable

 - Easy to maintain and durable

 - Natural fabric made from the cotton plant

 - Soft pre and post-wash

Linen Sheet

 - Natural fabric made from flax plants

 - Very durable

 - May be rough initially but gets softer with every wash

 - More expensive than cotton

 - Need to be maintained with care

 Tencel Sheet

- Natural fabric made from wood pulp

- Not as durable as cotton

 - 100% pure Tencel may be very expensive

 - Need to be maintained with care

 - Breathable and regulates temperature exceptionally well

 - Soft and silky to feel

 If you overheat and over-sweat too much, then Tencel may help regulate temperature the best of all three fabrics. However, not everyone will like the silky feeling of Tencel clothes. Soft cotton is definitely more comfortable to sleep on. If you are on a tight budget, without a doubt, cotton is the winner here.

Q: How to deal with old bed sheets?

1.Donation

You can donate your unwanted bed sheets to local welfare organizations. There are many organizations that will accept clean, reusable sheets to help those in need.

2. They can be reused

You can cut unwanted sheets into small pieces and use them as rags or dust cloths. You can also DIY projects. Cutting, sewing and making your own pillowcases.

3. Recycling

Check to see if there is a recycling program in your area, which will accept clothes and bed sheets. But be sure to follow local recycling rules.

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