You're Probably Not Washing Your Sheets Often Enough This Fall

One of the best parts of the cold season is snuggling deep under the covers. After all, the crisp air, warm drinks, and comfort of your cozy bed are intoxicating. While spending hours hanging out in your bed might be fun, it isn't all good news: Your sheets will get dirty faster and become a breeding ground for invisible grime. The fix, though, is simply to wash them more often.

As we transition into fall and winter, major changes happen in your home that dramatically increase the need for more frequent sheet washing. First and foremost is the lack of ventilation. Once the temperature drops, the windows close, effectively ending the natural air flow that kept things fresh during summer. All the common pollutants (think: dust, pet dander, skin flakes, and even mold spores) get trapped and recirculated, settling right back onto your pillowcase and sheets instead of getting aired out. Though there are tips for improving your home's air quality, regular linen washing is a good start.

This circulation issue gets compounded if you spend more time in bed. Whether you're sleeping in later, going to bed earlier, or enjoying a lazy weekend lie-in, more time under the blankets means more opportunity for the buildup of germs. Your body constantly sheds dead skin cells and releases sweat and oil, all of which get absorbed directly into your bedding fibers. This all boils down to the fact that you probably aren't washing your sheets often enough this fall, but making adjustments to your laundry schedule is easy and will ensure your linens stay fresh and you stay healthy.

Too infrequent washing is certainly a mistake you might be making with your bedsheets. Plus, it can pose a direct threat to hygiene and even your skin health. One of the biggest unseen threats lurking in your sheets is the dust mite. These microscopic allergens thrive in the warm, dark environment of a heavy comforter and feed directly on the dead skin cells you shed. When you add in a few more hours of snuggling with pets, the amount of concentrated pet dander also grows. Furthermore, the buildup of body oil and residual lotions that soak into your bedding can cause skin issues. When pressed against your face and body for hours each night, these contaminants can eventually circle back to clog pores, which can lead to acne, irritation, and dull skin tone. They can undo your whole nightly skincare routine by your just lying there.

Thankfully, the fix is straightforward for colder-month maintenance: Wash your sheets once a week. And don't forget to wash your pillows, either. Cleaning this often is crucial, since it stops dust mite breeding along with the buildup of body oils and allergens. When washing, use hot water (if the fabric allows) as it is the best way to kill mites and sanitize fibers. Some professional cleaners even recommend running a second rinse cycle just to make sure all detergent residue and trapped allergens are thoroughly rinsed away. Prioritizing this weekly ritual guarantees a cleaner, healthier, and more restful sanctuary for all of fall and winter.