How to wash bed linen?
Washing bed linen is essential to ensure comfort, hygiene and durability. As it comes into direct contact with the skin for several hours every night, it must be cared for regularly to eliminate dust, perspiration and bacteria.
However, many questions arise: which temperature should you choose, which washing program should you use, can sheets be tumble-dried, or how can you restore brightness to a set that has yellowed over time? Sylvie Thiriez, a specialist in home linen, shares her recommendations for properly caring for your sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases and bolster cases, whatever the material.
Which program should you use to wash bed linen?
The choice of washing program mainly depends on the material of your bed linen. Cotton fabrics with a 57-thread count, known for their strength and ease of care, can be machine washed at 60°C. This temperature effectively removes bacteria and dust mites while preserving fabric quality.
For cotton percale and washed percale, a 40 or 60°C cycle is recommended, depending on how soiled the linen is. These high-quality materials do, however, require moderate spinning to maintain their structure.
Linen, a natural and authentic fiber, can also be washed at 40 or 60°C, but prefers gentle drying to avoid any risk of distortion or discoloration.
Remember not to overload your washing machine: sheets need space to circulate freely in order to be thoroughly cleaned. Using a mild detergent without harsh whitening agents also helps extend the lifespan of your textiles.
→ Learn more: Which material should you choose for bed linen?
Can bed linen be tumble-dried?
Most cotton and percale sheets can be safely tumble-dried, provided you select a moderate program and do not exceed a medium temperature. This helps maintain fiber softness and limits the appearance of deep creases.
For washed percale, tumble-drying at a low temperature is possible and even helps enhance its naturally crinkled look.
However, for linen, air drying is preferable. Hang your sheets in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, to avoid discoloration.
This natural method preserves the strength and brightness of the fibers. As for more delicate materials, such as cotton gauze or silk, they must be dried flat or hung, without using a tumble dryer, to remain intact.
→ Learn more: How to care for bed linen?
Should new bed linen be washed?
Yes, it is strongly recommended to wash new bed linen before its first use. During manufacturing, textile finishes are applied to fabrics to set colors, stiffen fibers or protect the linen during transport.
An initial wash removes these residues and makes the fabric softer and more pleasant against the skin.
This first wash also helps permanently set colors and improve fiber resistance. For this initial machine wash, choose a gentle cycle at 30 or 40°C, without fabric softener or harsh products.
Once washed, your bed linen will be more comfortable and ready to accompany you through many peaceful nights.
How can you whiten yellowed bed linen?
Over time, even high-quality bed linen can lose its brightness and develop yellowish marks, often caused by perspiration, sebum or prolonged storage.
To restore its original whiteness, several natural solutions are available. Baking soda, added to your usual detergent, is an effective ally for lifting stains and brightening fibers.
White vinegar also helps revive colors while softening the fabric.
You can also soak your linen beforehand in a basin of hot water with sodium percarbonate, an eco-friendly whitening agent. Leave it to act for a few hours before machine washing your sheets.
