Pillowcases quickly accumulate dirt due to being exposed to a variety of substances for approximately eight hours each night. These substances range from the natural greases and oils produced by our skin and scalps to the beauty products we use to maintain our hair and complexion. To tackle this issue, cleaning expert Mary Gagliardi emphasizes the importance of regularly washing these essential bed linens. In an interview with Gagliardi, also known as “Dr. Laundry,” a scientist specializing in laundry product research and development at Clorox, we delved into the frequency of washing pillowcases and some key practices for ensuring their cleanliness.
Gagliardi advises that a good rule of thumb is to wash pillowcases every time you launder your bed sheets, ideally on a weekly basis. She highlights that individuals who perspire during sleep, have oily hair or skin, or wear makeup to bed may opt to wash their pillowcases more frequently. However, for most people, aligning the washing of pillowcases with the rest of the bedding is sufficient. Gagliardi elaborates, “Eight hours times seven days equals 56 hours of use—even if you don’t sweat or have oily hair, that’s enough ‘wear’ to necessitate washing them with the rest of the sheets.”
Regardless of the material of your pillowcase, Gagliardi stresses that most textiles require the same weekly washing routine. The key consideration is to prevent the accumulation of soils, body oil, sweat, and makeup that can become stubborn to remove over time. She states, “Satin sheets need to be washed just as frequently as cotton percale or cotton flannel sheets.” Therefore, the frequency of washing should not be determined by the fabric type alone.
When it comes to laundering pillowcases effectively, Gagliardi emphasizes the significance of using the appropriate laundry cycle and detergent specifically tailored for bedding. She notes that many individuals overlook this crucial step, leading to pillowcases that remain unclean. For optimal cleanliness, Gagliardi recommends using hot water, a heavy-duty cycle for thorough agitation, a quality detergent containing enzymes, and the suitable bleach based on the fabric and color of the pillowcases.
In terms of decorative pillow shams that are not used for direct sleeping purposes, Gagliardi mentions that these pieces can be washed less frequently. She suggests washing them along with the comforter cover to maintain color consistency. Additionally, to preserve the appearance of your linens, Gagliardi advises washing pillowcases and sheets together to uphold their quality over time. For those requiring more frequent changes, she recommends keeping a spare set of linens on hand to enable midweek swaps, allowing the original pieces to be washed together later.
In conclusion, maintaining the cleanliness of pillowcases is essential for hygiene and comfort during sleep. By adhering to a regular washing schedule, using appropriate laundering techniques, and considering the specific needs of different types of pillowcases, individuals can ensure their bedding remains fresh and free from accumulated grime. So, remember to give
