Should You Wash New Bedding?

Written By Anđela Rajković

Certified Sleep Consultant

22 April 2024 4 min read

Are you someone who can't wait to snuggle up in a brand-new bedding set straight out of the packaging? Well, before you dive into that cosy cocoon, there's one question you need to ask yourself: Should you wash new bedding?

There's nothing quite like slipping into a fresh set of bedding and feeling the softness of those new sheets against your skin. But before you get too comfortable, an age-old debate needs to be addressed: should you wash your new bedding before using it? While some swear by it, others see no harm in diving right in.

So, let's take a closer look at this topic and figure out once and for all whether washing new bedding is worth the extra effort.

Why you absolutely must wash your new bedding

When you first bring home a set of new bed sheets, it's tempting to just toss them on your bed and dive right in. But before you do, you might want to consider giving them a good wash. Here are a few reasons why:

• Removing chemical remnants: It's not uncommon for new bed sheets to have chemical remnants or dyes left over from the manufacturing process. If you have sensitive skin, these residues can be irritating and cause a rash or other reactions. By washing your new bedding, you can remove any unwanted chemicals and ensure a healthier, more comfortable sleep.
• Getting rid of static reduction: New bed sheets are notorious for causing static cling, which can be annoying and uncomfortable. A good wash with fabric softener can help reduce static and make for a smoother, more comfortable sleep.
• Allowing softness and comfort: Let's face it – new bed sheets feel scratchy and itchy. Nobody wants to sleep on something that feels like sandpaper! By washing your new bedding, you can eliminate that stiff feeling and make your sheets feel soft and cosy.

Of course, at the end of the day, whether or not to wash new bedding is ultimately a personal choice. But if you want to ensure the best possible sleep experience, taking a few extra minutes to give your new bedding a thorough wash is definitely worth it.

What can happen if you don't wash new sheets

You do not want to know what could happen if you don't wash your new bed sheets!

No, wait – you do want to know it!

Sleeping in brand-new sheets that haven't been washed is like rolling the dice with your health and comfort. First of all, your skin is sensitive, and it deserves to be pampered with soft and clean bedding. If you sleep on unwashed bed sheets, you're exposing yourself to a bunch of icky stuff. You know those stiff and scratchy feelings you get when you slide into new sheets? Well, that's because of the chemical remnants left over from the production process. Not only are they uncomfortable, but they can also cause skin irritation and rashes.

But wait, there's more!

If you don't wash your new bed sheets, you could also be exposing yourself to all kinds of nasty things like bacteria, germs, and even bed bugs. Yep, you read that right. Bed bugs are not only gross, but they can also cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

And let's not forget about reducing static. If you don't wash your new bed sheets, you'll be waking up to hair sticking up in every direction. So, let's be smart and keep our bedding clean and fresh!

How to properly wash your new bedding

Thus, don't be lazy – WASH YOUR BEDDING.

Washing new bedding doesn't have to be a chore, and doing it right can help you get the most out of your quality bedding.

Start by checking the care tag to ensure that you're washing your sheets properly. Generally, washing your white sheets in warm water and coloured sheets in cold water is the way to go. Add some baking soda to the wash cycle to help break down any chemicals that may be lingering in the fabric. Don't forget to throw in a dryer sheet to make your sheets smooth and reduce static.

When drying your sheets, tumble dry them on low heat to avoid shrinkage and damage to the fabric. And, avoid using fabric softener as it can leave a residue on the sheets and reduce their absorbency.

With these tips, you'll have fresh, clean, and oh-so-soft bedding that you can't wait to snuggle up in.

Conclusion

In conclusion, washing your new bedding before use is a must-do.

You never know what chemicals and residues could be lurking on the sheets, and why risk the potential for skin irritation or uncomfortable sleeping?

By following the care tag instructions and using warm or cold water, baking soda, and a dryer sheet, you can ensure your bedding is properly cleaned and ready for use. Don't forget, high-quality bedding deserves high-quality care, and a little extra effort goes a long way in keeping your sheets smooth and comfy.

So, the next time you're tempted to just throw on those new white sheets straight out of the packaging, remember the golden rule: always wash before you snooze!

Spread the word

Recommended reading:

• How often should you change a mattress?
• How to clean properly your mattress topper?
• A guide for cleaning your mattress efficiently

About the author

Anđela Rajković

As a CPD certified Sleep Consultant and well-practiced sleep enthusiast, I find a lot of joy in bringing my expertise to our readers – preferably those who love to sleep. With a background in the English language and literature and a love of research, I'm always seeking new ways to share the latest sleep science and bed-related findings. And, when I'm not connecting with my readers, you can find me exploring the great outdoors, or, well, curling up in bed.