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There’s hardly a better feeling than crawling into a freshly made bed at night. But how often should you actually change your bedding? And how do you wash it properly to keep it fresh for a long time? Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about the right care for your bedding.
How often do you change your bedding? And why should you wash it regularly? While we sleep, we lose about half to one liter of water per night, which is transferred to the bedding and mattress. Along with this, there are skin flakes: this warm, humid environment creates the perfect conditions for bacteria, dust mites, and germs. In the worst-case scenario, this can lead to skin conditions, allergies, or even asthma.
That’s why we recommend changing your bedding once or twice a month.This removes dead skin cells, sweat, and dirt, making it not only more hygienic but also giving you a more comfortable sleep experience.
THE RIGHT WASHING PROGRAM
Choose the right program for your bedding based on the material. We recommend washing your bedding on a gentle or delicate wash cycle. These programs have gentler movements, reducing the risk of damage or distortion to the fabric. Be sure to lower the spin speed to minimize wrinkles and save energy.
THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE
Most bedding can be washed comfortably at 40°C. This temperature is ideal for removing dirt and bacteria without damaging the fabrics. Washing at a lower temperature saves energy and is better for the environment. However, if you’re unsure, check the care label on your bedding. Sometimes, there are specific recommendations for lower temperatures, especially for delicate materials.
THE RIGHT DETERGENT
In general, it’s better to use powder detergent instead of liquid. Powder detergents are typically more eco-friendly and have better washing performance. They are also less taxing on sewage treatment plants. There are already several eco-friendly alternatives on the market that, unlike conventional detergents, are free from petroleum-based surfactants, fragrances, and preservatives. Oxygen bleach-based detergents are great for white linens because they help bring them back to a bright white. They are also suitable for heavily soiled laundry. For less soiled laundry, a gentle detergent is the better choice. It doesn't contain bleach or brighteners and cleans fabrics more gently. Combined with a gentle wash program at lower temperatures, your bedding will be well cared for, and you'll enjoy it for longer.
STAIN TREATMENT
If you have stubborn stains on your bedding, treat them before washing. Simply apply some detergent directly onto the stain and let it sit for a while before putting the bedding in the washing machine.
FOR NEW BEDDING
Bought new bedding? Be sure to wash it before using it for the first time. This removes any residual chemicals from manufacturing and packaging. Use the same wash program and recommended wash temperature as you would for future cleaning.
The environment and your favorite pieces will thank you if you hang your bedding outside to dry whenever possible. Using a tumble dryer exposes the bedding to heavy friction, which can stress the fabric. If you do use a dryer, choose a low temperature to avoid shrinking and ensure you follow the care label.
Tip: Bedding dries best when hung outside in the wind – not, as you might think, in strong sunlight. So, always make sure there's a good breeze to speed up the drying process. The wind also helps smooth out wrinkles. While the sun acts as a natural bleaching agent for white cotton fabrics, if you're drying colored bedding, make sure to protect it from excessive sun exposure.
Our erlich bedding is not only eco-friendly but also super cozy. It is made from 100% natural fibers. Our bedding sets, made from organic cotton or cotton in conversion and linen, are especially gentle on sensitive skin. The fabrics have an incredibly pleasant surface, providing the perfect erlich comfort experience. Learn more about our materials here.
