What happens when you don’t wash your bedsheets

Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Failure to wash bedsheets regularly can leave skin exposed to dirt, sebum, cosmetic products, and debris which will not only cause dust mites to accumulate, but can result in outbreaks of conditions such as acne, rashes, as well as cause irritation and itching, and flare-ups or eczema.” One thing many of us don’t realise is that sleep is an incredibly important time for our skin, generally speaking. “House dust mites are a big issue with allergy sufferers, and another reason to regularly wash bedding,” says Heather Nixon, sustainability and regulatory manager at eco-cleaning product manufacturer Bio-D. “If you find yourself waking up congested, coughing or having difficulty breathing this could be due to house dust mites.” In addition to all this, sleeping in the same sheets for too long can wreak havoc on your immune system, particularly if you’re sharing a bed with a partner who has been unwell. “Washing your bedsheets is a task that should be completed weekly, which can be extended to every two weeks should you not sleep in your bed every evening,” says sleep environment expert, Chris Tattersall. “I would also avoid adding softeners to your wash to avoid using unnecessary harmful chemicals that could irritate your skin.” While many of us reach for softener when washing our sheets, thinking it will make them softer and cosier, using it can actually ruin the sheets themselves, as can the washing process if you don’t do it properly, according to Catherine Morris, managing director at Tielle, which supplies bedding at five-star hotels such as The Savoy, The Dorchester and Soho House.