No matter the season of the year, there are important reasons why you should put thought and effort into reducing illness and sickness. This includes reducing the amount of potentially harmful germs and bacteria that are unknowingly spread throughout the house. Keeping the linens sanitized and consistently clean is one of the most simple ways to reduce harmful germs and bacteria.
Washing your sheets weekly is an excellent idea from a scientific proven health perspective even though admittedly the frequency of linen cleaning is a personal decision. From online resources ehow.com and examiner.com, the weekly washing of sheets in 130+ degree water will eliminate dead skin cells and dust mites. Depending on who is sleeping in the bed may determine how often you should clean those sheets. The mattress pad should also be cleaned regularly. It is a good idea to wash it bi-weekly or at least monthly.
Pillows are another consideration. To prevent your head from resting on germs that you’d be breathing all night long, washing pillows at least every six month minimum is a good idea. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when washing them. Generally you should be able to clean them in your home washing machine. With pillows made from down, adding clean tennis balls during the dryer phase will keep the feathers fluffy. Investing in zippered pillow protectors is also key: they act as a barrier between your pillow and its case the latter of which should be washed at least weekly to keep the former nice and sanitary.
Comforters and blankets need proper maintenance as well. A comforter washing should be a monthly exercise and a duvet should be washed weekly. Follow the instructions for caring for your blankets or comforter that are located on the label. To prevent fungus or other mold from growing, make sure to dry these properly. Lastly for the bedding category, blankets can also be washed and should be dry cleaned or washed monthly.
Towels should be cared for regularly including hand towels and washcloths especially. This is because they are used to dry hands and skin that has previously had oil and other dirt. There is a real risk of spreading staph infections and pinkeye from washcloths or hand towels. Bacteria can grow easily in conditions presented in bathrooms, usually warm and humid. Washing bath towels weekly, and smaller, more frequently used towels even more often that that, is an excellent way to tackle the germ problem.