Top News

Dust mites are tiny insect-like pests that feed on dead skin cells and live within carpets, bedding and furniture - going almost entirely unnoticed. However, their presence in your home can cause an allergic reaction, leaving you with a runny nose, sneezing, and even triggering asthma in particularly sensitive individuals. This brings us to the age-old question of how often bed sheets require washing and at what temperature, to ensure we bid farewell to dirt, dead skin cells and dust mites.

Well, that question has finally been answered by experts, who recommend a weekly laundry cycle. Specialists from Pizua Linens have revealed some unsettling facts about bedroom cleanliness that may influence your sleeping patterns. They explained: "Dust mites reproduce exceptionally fast and take up residence in places such as mattresses, bedding, and headboards."

When temperatures drop, and life moves indoors, dust mites begin to thrive. These microscopic, eight-legged organisms favour warm, humid environments and seek out locations rich in human hair and dead skin cells, which serve as their primary food source.

Regardless of where you reside, these creatures will inhabit your home for between 20 and 70 days. Fortunately, there's a method to eliminate them during your washing routine without requiring any specialist cleaning products.

The experts have outlined several strategies to combat these unwelcome guests, including laundering bedding at the correct temperature. To eradicate bacteria effectively, it is recommended to wash all linens, including pillowcases, on a 60°C cycle, as stated: "This temperature is correct for killing dust mites, bacteria and allergens."

The NHS similarly advocates for 60°C washing, though they point out that while dust mites dissolve in water, lower-temperature washes will only temporarily remove the allergen, as the mites themselves survive and continue producing allergens afterwards. Given that dust mites thrive in warm, humid conditions, ensuring your bedding is thoroughly dry before storage is essential. Putting away or remaking the bed with damp sheets risks encouraging mould growth and attracting more dust mites.

Clare, a linen specialist from Belle Dorm, has revealed another straightforward method to ward off dust mites and other microscopic pests - simply opening a window. Clare explained: "Once in a while, air your bedroom by leaving the windows open and pulling your sheets back, which will help fight germs, bed bugs and dust mites."

Drawing back the bedding allows moisture to dissipate rather than becoming trapped in the fabric, maintaining better hygiene levels in your bed. Opening a window to ventilate your bedding is remarkably straightforward and among the most effective ways to keep your bed dry, deterring germs and dust mites from inhabiting your sheets.

The process is simple: open a window for 10 minutes each morning, then pull your duvet and blankets down to the foot of the bed. You can either leave the bedding exposed to air throughout the day or close the window and remake your bed.

When it comes to keeping your towels at home feeling and looking squeaky clean, Vanish advises using a warm water setting of around 40-60°C. This temperature is the sweet spot, helping to remove dirt with minimal damage to the fabric itself. Although it's always best to check the manufacturer's exact recommendations.