Tips for Keeping Your Linens Like New
Your linens—bedding, tablecloths, napkins, and towels—are items that you probably use on a daily basis. Because these kinds of linens are frequently used, it’s important to learn how to take care of your linens so they last, keep looking good, and continue to give you joy for years to come.
This is especially so when it comes to your bed sheets and towels, which get hours of use every day. It makes such a difference to know that when you go to bed or wrap yourself in a towel after a bath, your linens are fresh, clean, and oh-so-comfy!
How to Take Care of Your Bed Sheets
Your bed sheets are essential for creating a cozy and relaxing sleep environment that you’ll love climbing into every night. Take care of them and they will take care of you!
How to Wash Bed Sheets
- Read the care label for instructions, then wash your new sheets before use.
- Wash your fitted sheets, bed spreads, and pillow cases weekly. Duvet covers, shams, thick quilts, and throws can be washed every one to three months, depending on the frequency of use.
- The best method of washing your sheets is in warm water with a mild laundry detergent. If you have white sheets, you can use non-chlorine bleach. If you need to remove stains, use a product like OxiClean. Adding baking soda to your wash, or vinegar to your rinse cycle can also freshen up your laundry. And remember to wash similar colored items and fabrics together.
How to Dry Bed Sheets
- Dry your sheets in low to medium heat and remove them before they are fully dry to reduce wrinkles. To avoid your sheets getting bunched up, shake them out before you put them into the dryer. You may also want to check on the load midway to make sure other linens or items didn’t get caught in your fitted sheets.
- Before you store them or put them back on your bed, be sure your sheets are fully dry, and store your bedding in a cool place that is well-ventilated.
How to Take Care of Your Bath Towels
Invest in premium quality cotton towels, and take good care of them if you want them to stay soft, absorbent, and durable.
How to Wash Towels
- Wash your towels frequently, every three to four days. For colored towels, wash them in cold or warm water depending on the care instructions, and don’t use bleach or cleaners with bleaching agents. For white towels, you can wash them in hot water with non-chlorine bleach if needed.
- Avoid washing towels with clothing that has zippers, hooks, or Velcro to prevent snags.
How to Dry and Store Towels
- Before drying your towels, give them a little shake to prevent them from balling up in the dryer. Also, dry in low to warm heat. We also recommend not using fabric softeners, especially for towels made of natural fibers.
- Before storing or using, make sure your towels are fully dry. Store in a cool and dry place. If you like, add a bag of lavender to your linen closet, or tucked into the folds of your towels and bedsheets.
