August 6, 2026, 8:57 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Freshly washed bed linens not only feel pleasant but also contribute to a hygienic sleeping environment. Night after night, the body sheds skin flakes, absorbs sweat, and leaves other residues in the textiles. To keep the bed a clean and comfortable retreat, bed linens should be changed regularly. But how often is this actually necessary? myHOMEBOOK has the answer.
Washing Bed Linens–How Often Is It Necessary?
The frequency with which you should change your bed linens depends on your sleeping habits, as informed by the German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association (IKW). Those who like to sleep naked or sweat a lot should change their bed weekly. Such a short interval is also advisable during the hot summer months. In the cooler seasons, however, it is sufficient to wash the bed linens every two to three weeks.
In addition to sweat and skin particles, bacteria or bedbugs can also nest in the bed linens over time. After all, the body releases about one and a half liters of moisture overnight. Combined with body heat, this creates an ideal breeding ground for pests.
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At What Temperature Should You Wash Bed Linens?
Even though many wash their bed linens at 60 degrees Celsius, in most cases, 30 to 40 degrees Celsius is completely sufficient when using full or universal detergents. Sixty degrees are only necessary if the laundry is heavily soiled. A lower temperature, on the other hand, preserves the textile fibers and colors. If it is colored bed linens and color detergents, it should not exceed 60 degrees.
Related: What to Wash at 60 Degrees–And What Not To
Tips for Allergy Sufferers
If you suffer from a dust mite allergy, you should wash your bed linens more frequently. A weekly wash cycle is recommended. Additionally, allergy sufferers should clean their bed linens at 60 degrees. This can effectively combat a mite infestation.
Note: There is also special anti-mite bed linen for allergy sufferers. More on this topic and why you shouldn’t make your bed right away in the morning can be found in this article.
Extra Tip
“Whether you want your pets to sleep in bed with you is up to you. Personally, I have to admit that I couldn’t stop my cat from doing so–and I wouldn’t want to. If you’re like me and appreciate a purring hot water bottle, you should also wash your bed linens more frequently. A weekly change is appropriate. To better remove hair, special lint brushes are suitable. In particular, areas where the pet likes to rest should be cleared of pet hair.”