6 Tips For Washing Bedding and Linens To Reduce Allergens
If you're an allergy sufferer, you know that allergens can lurk in unexpected places. One of the most important steps you can take to reduce allergens in your home is to regularly wash your bedding and linens.
But how often should you be washing them, and what steps can you take to ensure they are truly clean? In this article, we'll explore the answers to these questions and more.
First and foremost, it's important to understand why washing your bedding and linens is so important for allergy sufferers. Dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens can accumulate in your bedding and linens over time. These allergens can trigger symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. By washing your bedding and linens regularly, you can reduce the amount of allergens in your home and potentially reduce your allergy symptoms.
So, how often should you be washing your bedding and linens?
The answer depends on a few factors, including your sensitivity to allergens, the severity of your allergies, and the season. As a general rule of thumb, it's recommended that you wash your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. If you have severe allergies, you may want to wash them more frequently, such as every three to four days. During peak allergy season, such as in the spring and fall, you may also want to increase the frequency of your washing.
But washing your bedding and linens isn't as simple as throwing them in the washing machine and calling it a day.
To truly reduce allergens, you need to take a few extra steps. Here are 6 tips to ensure your bedding and linens are as clean as possible:
Use hot water: Washing your bedding and linens in hot water can help kill dust mites and other allergens. Make sure your water temperature is set to at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use allergy-friendly detergent: Look for detergents that are free of dyes and fragrances, as these can exacerbate allergy symptoms. You can also opt for detergents that are specifically designed for allergy sufferers.
Wash pillows and comforters: Pillows and comforters can also harbor allergens, so it's important to wash them regularly. Check the care label for specific washing instructions, as some may need to be dry cleaned.
Use a protective fabric softener: This fragrance-free fabric softener leaves your clothes soft and fresh by creating an inhospitable environment for odor causing bacteria. Unlike other technologies that use silver-ions to kill bacteria, this solution is 100% safe to the human touch and does not absorb into the skin.
Use a high-quality dryer sheet or high-quality fabric softener: Dryer sheets and fabric softeners can help reduce static and keep your bedding and linens soft, but make sure you choose a high-quality option that won't add unnecessary fragrances.
Store linens properly: After washing, make sure to store your bedding and linens in a clean, dry place. Avoid storing them in areas that are prone to moisture, such as a damp basement.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your bedding and linens are as clean as possible, and reduce your exposure to allergens. Of course, washing your bedding and linens is just one step in reducing allergens in your home. You should also regularly vacuum and dust your home, use air purifiers, and minimize your exposure to outdoor allergens.
If you're unsure about how often to wash your bedding and linens, or if you're experiencing severe allergy symptoms, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider.
