July 3, 2026, 9:55 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Freshly laundered bed linens not only provide a pleasant sleeping experience but also contribute to hygiene. While we sleep, our bodies regenerate and process the day’s impressions. To keep the bed a clean and cozy place for rest, bed linens should be changed and washed regularly. But how often is this actually necessary? myHOMEBOOK explains.
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 cooler seasons, it’s 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?
Although many wash their bed linens at 60 degrees Celsius, in most cases, 30 to 40 degrees Celsius is entirely 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’s 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. Learn more about this topic and why you shouldn’t make your bed immediately in the morning 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–and wouldn’t want to–stop my cat. 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 advisable. To better remove hair, special lint brushes are suitable. Especially those areas where the pet likes to rest should be cleared of pet hair.”