8 bed linen care mistakes you're making (and how to fix them)
16th Oct 2024
There’s nothing quite like slipping into fresh, soft bed linens at the end of a long day.
But, are you unknowingly making common bed linen care mistakes that are preventing you from getting the most out of your sheets and experiencing the ultimate comfort?
Fear not! We’ve got your back with eight of the most common bed linen care mistakes and how to avoid or fix them.
1. Washing your sheets with hot water
Problem: Your sheets are fading faster than a rainbow after a storm. Washing sheets in hot water may cause them to lose their softness and vibrant colours.
Solution: Opt for cold or warm water when washing your bed linens to maintain their quality and keep them looking their best. Make sure to use a detergent formulated for cooler washes.
2. Storing your linens before they’re dry
Problem: Mould or musty odours. It sounds like you could be storing your sheets before they’re fully dry. Folding and storing damp sheets can create an ideal environment for mould growth, especially in dark, humid places, like your linen cupboard!
Solution: Always ensure your sheets are completely dry before storing them. Even after a machine dry, it can be worth hanging them up or using a drying rack to let them air dry fully, preventing any moisture buildup and maintaining freshness.
Get the look
3. Not rotating your sheets
Problem: Your sheets are wearing out faster than they should. Using the same set of bed linens without rotation can lead to faster wear and tear.
Solution: Extend the lifespan of your bed linens by having a second set in rotation. This allows each set to rest and recover, ensuring longer-lasting, high-quality sheets. This means, you get to keep your favourite sheets around for longer AND save money in the long term. Win/win.
Get the look
4. Not tackling stains promptly
Problem: Stains have settled in, leaving your bedsheets feeling soiled and dirty, even when they’re fresh out of the wash. Letting stains sit on your bed linens can make them more difficult to remove.
Solution: Tackle stains as soon as possible. Pre-treat them with a gentle stain remover or a mixture of mild detergent and water before laundering for effective stain removal. Check out our article on how to treat the most common stains for our top tricks and tips.
Get the look
5. Using bleach
Problem: Your white sheets have yellowed and you just can’t figure out why! Using bleach to wash or remove stains can cause white sheets to turn yellow over time and potentially damage or weaken fabric fibres.
Solution: Avoid bleach and opt for natural alternatives. Vinegar and baking soda can be effective in brightening and freshening your bed linens without the risk of discolouration or damage. Find more hot tips here: This is Exactly How to Make Your Sheets White Again.
Get the look
6. Using fabric softeners
Problem: Your sheets don’t feel the way they used to. Using fabric softener may leave a residue on your sheets, affecting their absorbency and overall feel.
Solution: Replace fabric softener with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda during the rinse cycle. This natural alternative will help soften your bed linens while maintaining their optimal moisture-wicking and thermo-regulating properties.
Get the look
7. Overloading your washing machine
Problem: Freshly laundered linens not as fresh as you’d like them to be? Overloading your washing machine with too many bed linens can prevent proper cleaning and hinder the effectiveness of your laundry routine.
Solution: Avoid overloading your washing machine and allow your bed linens to have enough space for thorough cleaning. Washing them in smaller loads ensures better results and helps maintain their freshness.
Get the look
8. Not cleaning your washing machine
Problem: Sometimes, even after washing, your sheets still have a funky smell. This could actually be a symptom of your washing machine needing a little TLC.
Solution: Give your washing machine a clean. Use white vinegar and run a cycle without any clothes to clean out any lingering odours and maintain a fresh-smelling machine.
By avoiding these common bed linen care mistakes and following the simple solutions provided, you'll be well on your way to enjoying the utmost comfort and cosiness every night. Remember, taking care of your bed linens properly not only enhances your sleep experience but also ensures their longevity, saving you money in the long run. Embrace the joy of well-maintained bed linens and indulge in the luxury of a perfect night's sleep.