Psst! This Is How Often You Should Actually Be Washing Your Bed Sheets

Considering how much time many of us spend in bed (about a third of our lives!), it's surprising that few of us actually wash our sheets as often as we should. Some people argue that sheets get softer the longer you go between washes, while others swear by the coziness of a crisp, freshly washed set. No matter your personal opinions on the subject, the truth is that washing your sheets on a regular basis (every one to two weeks) isn't just a matter of comfort, but of health as well.

Every time you climb into bed, you leave behind oil, skin cells, and sweat, which get absorbed into the fibers of your sheets. This can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can make your skin break out. Dead skin cells can also add to the allergens in your home, making it more difficult to breathe and giving you cold-like symptoms. Plus, skin cells are the food of choice for dust mites, which produce waste and add even more to the poor air quality in your home.

While laundering them every one to two weeks is a good rule to follow, it also depends on whether or not you sleep alone. The more oil and dirt that your sheets see, the more often you should wash them. You'll want to wash your pillowcases more often, too — up to twice a week — especially if you're acne-prone or have oily skin.