How Often Should You Change Your Bed Sheets?

Let’s be honest – it might not be dinner party conversation, but how often should you really be changing your bed sheets? It’s something that affects all of us, whether we’re single, in a relationship, or somewhere in between.

A recent survey of 2,250 UK adults shows we’re far from agreed on the answer.

Nearly half of single men admitted they go as long as four months without washing their bedding – and 12% confessed they only do it when they remember. Yes, really.

“That’s really not a good plan,” says Dr Lindsay Browning, a chartered psychologist, neuroscientist and sleep expert, speaking to BBC Radio 1’s Newsbeat.

In contrast, 62% of single women said they wash their sheets every two weeks. Couples, on average, get round to it every three weeks – according to data from bedding brand Pizuna Linens.

Why Bother Changing Your Sheets?

Dr Browning cuts to the chase: ideally, you should change your bed sheets once a week – or every two weeks at most.

The biggest reason? Hygiene.

“During sleep, we sweat – especially in warmer weather,” she explains. “That sweat soaks into your sheets, making them smell unpleasant and clogging up the fabric.”

And it’s not just sweat. Our bodies shed dead skin cells while we sleep – and if your bedding isn’t washed regularly, those skin cells accumulate. The real problem? Dust mites love to feed on them.

“You’re not just lying in sweat and skin cells – you’re also inviting mites into your bed. That can lead to itching, skin irritation, and poor sleep quality,” says Dr Browning.

Does the Season Make a Difference?

Sort of. Dr Browning says you can be “slightly more forgiving” in the winter months, but ideally, once a week is still the gold standard.

Even in colder weather, your body continues to shed skin cells. Plus, you might go to bed with hands that aren’t perfectly clean, and there’s still the same breath and body moisture being released into your bedding.

And in summer? There’s the added issue of allergens like pollen and dust. “If you suffer from hay fever, it’s even more important to wash your sheets regularly to avoid bringing allergens into bed with you,” she warns.

Why People Put It Off

So, what’s stopping people from changing their sheets more often?

According to the survey:

• 67% said they simply forget
• 35% admitted they couldn’t be bothered
• 22% said they don’t have any spare clean bedding
• And 38% didn’t believe their sheets needed washing more regularly
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A Clean Bed Is a Happy Bed

Dr Browning believes your bedroom should be your “sanctuary” – a relaxing space that feels safe, clean and calm.

Some also said showering before bed was their reason for washing sheets less often. But while going to bed clean helps, it doesn’t eliminate the need for regular sheet washing, especially if you sweat during sleep.

She’s seen first-hand how unwashed bedding can affect people with sleep difficulties. “If your sheets are dirty, smelly or just don’t feel nice, you’re sending a signal to your brain that your bed isn’t a restful place,” she explains.

“But when your sheets are fresh, the bed smells nice, and it looks inviting, it can really help you feel calm and happy – which is exactly what you want before falling asleep.”

MyShortLets Keeps It Fresh – Always

At MyShortLets, we understand the importance of a clean and comfortable space. That’s why we change and launder bed sheets weekly – or even more frequently when needed. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a longer let, you can count on fresh, hotel-quality bedding that helps you relax and sleep well.

Your comfort is our priority – because great sleep starts with a clean bed.

By Manish Pandey – Adapted for Blog Format BBC Source >>>