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This is how you should be washing sheets for soft and long-lasting results

If your sheets don't feel smooth and soft on your bed – try this!
Profile picture of Livia Gamble Writer

For many of us, practice doesn’t make perfect when it comes to washing sheets. In fact, many of us make some really common mistakes that can cause our sheets to feel less than soft when they are put back on your bed.

The good news is that there are some very simple tips to washing sheets that will help them feel fresh when they’re dry, and even last longer.

Six tips for washing sheets perfectly

  1. When cleaning sheets, always read the care label on your sheets.
  2. Take the label into consideration when washing sheets. Use the hottest setting the fabric can tolerate for a thorough clean. 
  3. Separate colours just like you would when washing your clothes. And avoid washing your sheets with other garments.
  4. Use a liquid detergent with no fillers.
  5. The sun is a natural disinfectant, so drying your sheets on the line is always preferable. If you prefer the dryer, use a low-heat setting. 
  6. If your sheets feel crunchy once dry, you’re probably using too much detergent. 
Reading the care label before washing sheets helps them last longer.
(Credit: Getty)

How to wash linen sheets

The marvellous thing about owning linen sheets is that they get softer over time. Wash linen sheets in cool water with mild liquid detergent (less is more). 

Make sure your linen sheets are always thoroughly rinsed. Run an extra rinse cycle on your washing machine to make sure. Linen is best dried on the line but if you pop them in the dryer, use low heat. 

As always, read the manufacturer’s instructions when washing sheets. Importantly, stay away from bleach and fabric softeners. 

Washing bed sheets means you can enjoy slipping into nice, clean sheets when you go to bed.
(Credit: Getty)

How to wash bamboo sheets

Similar to line sheets, bamboo bed sheets will soften over time. They are also best washed in cold water, and hot water might cause your sheets to shrink. 

Dry your bamboo sheets in the sun. However, bamboo can take longer to dry than other fabrics. But if you need to use the dryer, opt for a cool setting. 

Choose liquid detergent, avoid bleach and fabric softener and enjoy that new sheet feeling after every wash. 

Bamboo sheets are best washed in cold water.
(Credit: Getty)

How to wash and dry sheets for wrinkle-free results

Ariel Kaye, founder and CEO of Parachute, told Apartment Therapy the secret to perfectly-washed, unwrinkled bed sheets is all in how you dry them. 

In fact, she suggests that to get that hotel-room feeling when you climb into bed, you should avoid drying your sheets properly. Take them out of the dryer or off the line while they are still a tiny bit damp.

“Then, immediately make your bed and smooth away wrinkles.”

Voila! Soft, unwrinkled sheets.

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Profile picture of Livia Gamble
Writer Livia Gamble Senior Digital Content Producer

With a Bachelor’s degree in communications and over a decade of industry experience, Livia is a seasoned content producer and editor who has a knack for crafting articles brimming with helpful information you never knew you needed (but you do). She has covered various topics, from home decor and gardening to health and wellness, showcasing her versatility and expertise. Livia's writing has been featured in publications such as the lifestyle section of the Sydney Morning Herald. Additionally, she has worked as a content editor for various parenting and lifestyle brands, including Babyology and Essential Kids. When she isn’t reporting on ways to improve your home and garden, she can be found crocheting ponchos and attempting to master the perfect homemade pizza dough.

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