Sleeping On Dirty Linen

If you have problem skin, your pillowcase or sheets could be the issue. What happens when you don’t wash your linens regularly?

Dust mites- Dust mites love to feast on all of those skin cells you are shedding. The mites and their poo can irritate your skin.

Bacteria- Lab tests show that bacteria multiplies by 17,000 over a week of not washing your linen. Even after a shower your skin harbors bacteria. Sweat, saliva and pets can add to the load.

Pillow problems- Your pillow itself can harbor mildew or fungus. Feather pillows can also be problematic for some people. Microbes can filter down through your pillowcase into your pillow.

Viruses and more- Some germs can live on soft surfaces for longer periods. If you have kids or pets jumping into your bed, or if you head into bed after being out in the world, these germs can transfer to your bedding. Germs that normally live on feet could potentially make it to your face.

Make sure to wash your bedding on the hottest setting available. Wash once a week at a minimum. For comforters or duvets that won’t fit in your washer, consider a schedule for taking them to a laundry-mat. Washing your pillowcase every couple of days is an easy way to protect your face from bed-induced breakouts. Since pillowcases are much cheaper than sheets, you could consider buying a couple extra cases so you don’t have to wash as often.