If you’re like a lot of the world, doing laundry might not be your favourite chore.

However, also like a lot of the world, sleeping may be one of your favourite things — and you most likely spend anywhere from 30-60 hours in your bed on any given week.

Enter the famous question: how often should you wash your bed sheets? Probably more often than you think (or you want)! Here’s what you need to know.

Your bed sheets can get dirty… and fast

If you start to really think about it, a lot can get on your bed sheets — and quickly. From dead skin cells and oils to sweat and skincare products, your bed sheets absorb all that your skin sheds. 

Rule of thumb? Wash your sheets once a week

Sleeping is supposed to be a calming, peaceful experience — not a gross one, right? That’s why Skylark+Owl Linen Co. — along with most experts — recommend washing your sheets once a week. If that seems like too much washing, you could wash every two weeks instead… but we wouldn’t recommend going any longer. 

By washing your sheets once a week, you can trust that you’re sleeping in a cleaner and cozier bed. Plus, washing your sheets once a week is a great way to keep you and your sheets clean. Washing your sheets often can prevent breakouts from excess oil, and can also prevent skin irritation from a build-up of dust mites.

Wondering how to wash your bed sheets?

Washing your bed sheets the right way is key to making sure that they stay in the best condition possible, which is why you’ll want to check out our care instructions page on bed sheets before doing anything else. However, as a rule of thumb, these are the best practices for washing bed sheets: 

• Wash your sheets in cool to warm water
• Wash with items similar in colour and fabric
• Avoid washing with items that may have zippers or hooks that could cause pilling. 
• Use a gentle detergent
• Do not use chlorine bleach, benzoyl peroxide, and other harsh chemicals
• Hang dry sheets or tumble dry on low heat

Now that you’re ready to start washing your bed sheets once a week, it’s the perfect time to have an extra set of bed sheets to swap out. At Skylark+Owl, our sheets are built specifically to build the coziest of nests, from sateen and percale, to linen and flannel. Shop here, and happy sleeping (and washing)!