When Should You Wash It...

 



When Should You Wash It...

Have you ever wondered how long you can go without washing your sheets, pj's, or jeans?  Simply smelling or looking at them doesn't always do the trick.  On the other hand, washing something too often can shorten its lifetime.  Here are some helpful tips on when it's time to toss your pillow and other things into the laundry basket.

Bed sheets should be washed at least every other week.  If you sweat at night, wash your bed sheets weekly.  On the other hand, pillows and comforters can be cleaned 2 or 3 times a year.  An easy reminder: Wash them when the seasons change.  After someone's been sick, throw all their bed linens in the washer.

After a few good nights' sleep, toss your pajamas in the wash.  If you're a before-you-go-to-bed showerer, you can wait a few extra nights between washings.

Not everything you wear gets dirty after you've worn it once.  Jackets, dresses, or jeans can be worn several times before they need a cleaning.  When your denim jeans start to lose their stretch, it's time for them to hit the washing machine.

When it comes to bath towels, they need a spin in the washer after 3 or 4 uses.  To keep towels from getting musty-smelling in between washes, make sure to hang them up and give hem room to air dry thoroughly.  Towels that are used after a workout will need to be washed more often.
Every now and then I like to toss my shower curtain liner in the wash.  I find this helps prevent it from getting mildew stains.  If your bathroom sees heavy foot traffic, the bath mat may need to be washed weekly.  Smart shopping tip: Increase the time between washes by purchasing a reversible bath mat.