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Is It Right To Wash Bed Sheets With Other Clothes?

  • Riya Yadav
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Is It Right To Wash Bed Sheets With Other Clothes?
Is It Right To Wash Bed Sheets With Other Clothes?

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When it comes to doing laundry, we often look for ways to save time, energy, and water. One common question that pops up is, can you wash bed sheets with other clothes? While tossing everything into one load might seem convenient, laundry experts and hygiene professionals have a lot to say about why it may not be the best practice.

In this blog, we’ll explore whether it’s right to wash bed sheets with other clothes, the pros and cons of doing so, and tips to ensure your laundry stays fresh, clean, and long-lasting.

Why Bed Sheets Need Special Care?

Bedsheets are an integral part of our house whether it is cotton bedsheet or linen. We all take at least a nap of 6-8 hours which means our bed sheets must collect body sweat, body oils, dead skin cells, and even dust that’s why bedsheets require special cleaning. 

Here’s why they deserve special attention: 

  • High Exposure to Germs: Sheets can harbor bacteria and allergens over time.

     

  • Fabric Differences: Most bed sheets are made from cotton, linen, or microfiber—materials that require different wash settings than clothes.

     

  • Size and Bulk: Sheets are large and can become tangled with smaller items during the wash cycle, reducing cleaning efficiency.

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So, Can You Wash Sheets with Clothes?

Can You Wash Sheets with Clothes?
Can You Wash Sheets with Clothes?

When it comes to washing, yes, we can wash our bed sheets with other clothes as well but do you think you should? Well! No. Here’s why combining them is not ideal:

1. Different Fabric Types

Different Fabrics of Bedsheets
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Clothes are often made from a variety of fabrics—denim, synthetics, knits—that don’t mix well with sheets. These materials may require different temperatures, spin speeds, and detergent types. Washing incompatible fabrics together can lead to:

  • Damage to delicate sheets

  • Lint transfer between items

Improper cleaning due to mismatched load needs

2. Hygiene Concerns

As bed sheets collect skin cells, sweat, and bacteria, mixing them with everyday clothes (especially undergarments or gym wear) can lead to cross-contamination. This becomes even more concerning if someone in the household is sick.

3. Tangled Mess

Sheets tend to wrap around smaller clothing items, like socks and t-shirts, forming a laundry burrito. This can prevent proper cleaning and rinsing, leaving both sheets and clothes dirty or detergent-heavy. 

When It Might Be Okay?

There are a few situations where washing sheets with clothes is less risky, such as:

  • Small loads of lightweight clothes (like t-shirts and pajamas) with similar fabrics and colors.

  • Using a large capacity washing machine with enough room for thorough agitation and rinse cycles.

  • In emergencies or when traveling, where laundry options are limited.

Even in these cases, it’s important to:

  • Use cold or warm water (unless you’re sure all fabrics can handle hot water)

  • Avoid overloading the machine

  • Use a mesh laundry bag for smaller items to prevent tangling

Best Practices for Washing Bed Sheets

If you want your sheets to remain soft, clean, and durable, here are some laundry tips:

1. Wash Sheets Separately

This is the golden rule. Give your bed sheets the space and attention they need by washing them separately from clothing. This ensures thorough cleaning and helps them last longer.

2. Choose the Right Settings

  • Use hot water (60°C/140°F) for cotton sheets to kill germs and mites.

  • For delicate materials like bamboo or silk, use cold water and a gentle cycle.

  • Select a high-quality detergent suitable for the fabric type.

3. Avoid Overloading

Overstuffing your washer reduces the effectiveness of the wash and rinse cycles. Sheets need space to move around for even cleaning.

4. Dry Properly

Use a tumble dryer on low to medium heat, or line-dry if possible. Over-drying can damage the fibers and cause shrinkage.

How Often Should You Wash Bed Sheets?

Experts recommend washing your sheets once a week. If you have allergies, sweat a lot at night, or sleep with pets, you might want to wash them more frequently—every 3 to 4 days.

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Conclusion

While it’s tempting to toss your sheets in with your laundry to save time, it’s generally not recommended. Bed sheets need special care to maintain hygiene, comfort, and fabric quality. Washing them separately ensures they are properly cleaned, dried, and remain in great condition over time.

So, the next time laundry day comes around, give your sheets the solo treatment they deserve!

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FAQs

It’s better not to. Towels are heavy and shed lint, which can stick to sheets. They also require hotter water and longer drying times, which may not be suitable for sheet fabrics.

If you’re washing just a few items, consider pairing sheets only with clothes of similar fabric and color, and use cold or warm water. But try to keep them separate whenever possible.

Yes, but sparingly. Overusing fabric softener can reduce the absorbency and breathability of sheets. Alternatively, use white vinegar as a natural softener during the rinse cycle.

Absolutely. Hand washing is gentler and ideal for delicate fabrics like silk or bamboo. Just soak in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and air dry flat to avoid stretching.



Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not necessarily purport to reflect the values or views of Tumbledry.

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