Bedsheets do not necessarily need to be washed at high temperatures (Image: Getty)
Washing bedding can sometimes feel complicated as it is often hotly debated how hot a washing machine cycle needs to be in order to kill bacteria on your sheets.
It may seem obvious to your at 90C to make sure you are getting rid of germs, but this can damage the and wear it down over time, so it will more likely to shrink or tear.
James Higgins, a expert from , has shared that bedding needs to be washed at different temperatures depending on the circumstances, but typically, it is fine to wash bedding at a cooler temperature.
He said: “In the majority of cases, your bedding and sheets should be washable on a low-temperature cycle, which can help to prolong their life while also reducing the amount of energy you’re consuming.”
Lowering the temperature on your washing is much gentler on your laundry but can also help you save some money on electricity bills as well as being more eco-friendly.
:
Bedding can be washed on a low temperature in certain circumstances (Image: Getty)
When to wash your bedding on a cool cycle (30C)
Bedding should typically be washed once a week, and if you do a routine wash then you are absolutely fine to wash bedding on a cooler temperature.
James said: “If you’re only putting your bed sheets through a routine wash, you may not need to up the temperature beyond a cool 30C. For instance, if you’ve no obvious stains and you’re just conducting your weekly laundry.”
If you own brightly coloured sheets, it is usually much better to do a lower temperature to make sure the dye does not run or fade.
Any bedding which is made of delicate fabric such as silk or bamboo should also be washed at a lower temperature, but if you are still unsure then look at the label of the bedding which will tell you the best temperature to wash it on.
Bedsheets should be washed at least once a week (Image: Getty)
When to wash bedding on a hot cycle (over 40C)
If you do not wash your bedding regularly, it is best to wash it at a warmer temperature, as you need to make sure you have killed all bacteria and germs lurking on the sheets.
You should also wash bedding at a higher temperature if you have pets that enjoy lounging on your bed or if you have been ill recently to remove viruses.
Bedding also often becomes yellow and discoloured as we are more likely to sweat in our sleep, so if you have noticed any stains, make sure to turn up the temperature on your washing machine.
James said: “More often than not, washing your sheets on a hot setting will do a great job at removing persistent marks and stains. But not only that; it helps to thoroughly clean the natural oils, dirt, and grime that you’ve accumulated simply by sleeping.”
However, it is important to note that certain stains such as coffee, wine or blood should never be washed in hot water as it can set the stain and make it almost impossible to get out.
If you have tough stains, then you are much better o, or