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You need to wash your sheets even more in the summer

Here’s an intriguing fact that might prompt you to change your bed linens right away: after just seven days, pillowcases and sheets can harbor between 3 and 5 million colony-forming units (CFUs) of bacteria per square inch. This is while they’re still considered relatively clean. By the fourth week without laundering, this can surge to 12 million CFUs, as revealed by research conducted by Amerisleep.

The truth is, most people are not great at keeping their sheets clean. A study by Sleep Advisor found that on average, people switch their sheets approximately every 24 days, or a little less often than every three weeks. However, this is nearly twice as long as experts advise, and it might explain why your bed sometimes feels less inviting and more like a germ hotspot. The urgency increases in summer when we perspire more, creating ideal conditions for bacteria that thrive in warm, moist environments.

In this article: DOZ Sheet Set, 100% Viscose from Bamboo, BOLL & BRANCH Percale Hemmed Sheet Set, and Bedsure Blend of Rayon from Bamboo Linen Sheets, Cooling Sheets for Warm Sleepers

Higher temperatures and humidity lead to increased accumulation of sweat, body oils, dust mites, and bacteria. Fortunately, a regular washing routine can address these issues effectively.

How often should you wash your sheets?

Sleep experts generally agree on a straightforward solution: Wash your sheets about once a week, especially during the summer. The combination of summer heat and increased sweating creates a haven for bacteria where you sleep. If you experience cooler weather and have fewer concerns, washing every two weeks can suffice during those times.

However, if there are more people, pets and activities in the bed, or you have health-related concerns, go for the once-a-week option.

Should you wash new sheets?

Absolutely, and here’s why it’s essential: New sheets may look crisp, fresh, and clean when first unpackaged due to various starches and chemicals used during manufacturing and packaging. However, if not washed off before use, these substances could cause itching or allergic reactions.

The washing process also helps remove that stiff, straight-from-the-package feel that many new sheets have. The first wash prepares your sheets to do their job properly — providing a clean, comfortable, breathable sleep surface that’s ready for you to have sweet dreams.

Start fresh with new sheets

DOZ Sheet Set, 100% Viscose derived from Bamboo

Made from organically grown bamboo, these sheets offer buttery-soft texture and deep pockets to fit mattresses up to 16 inches. The viscose bamboo material provides natural moisture-wicking and cooling properties, making them ideal for hot sleepers and humid summer conditions.

BOLL & BRANCH Percale Hemmed Sheet Set

Crafted from 100% organic cotton, these luxury sheets provide exceptional breathability and cooling. The crisp, hotel-like feel maintains temperature regulation throughout the night, while the organic cotton is durable and softens with each wash.

Bedsure Blend of Rayon Derived from Bamboo Linen Sheets, Cooling Sheets for Hot Sleeper

According to BestReviews testing, these rayon-derived bamboo sheets are soft and keep you cool — and they offer good value due to their reasonable price. Testers did note that they wrinkle easily and don’t dry as quickly as some options.

SLEEP ZONE Nanotex Super-Soft Cooling Queen Bed Sheets Set

BestReviews testers found that these budget-friendly cooling sheets look great, and thanks to their proprietary Nanotex technology, they do a great job of keeping most sleepers cool and dry all night. The fabric is less soft than other options though, and they’re prone to pilling.

Sleep Philosophy Smart Cool Microfiber Moisture-Wicking Breathable 4 Piece Cooling Sheet Set

BestReviews testing showed that these moisture-wicking microfiber sheets offer Smart Cool technology with extra-fine material to keep you cool and dry during sleep, plus deep pockets to fit most mattresses. However, the fabric is thin, making longevity a concern.

Comfort Spaces Queen Cooling Sheets

According to BestReviews testers, these cooling microfiber sheets are soft and breathable, though best suited for thinner mattresses — the fitted sheet can slip off thicker mattresses.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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