Your pillowcase is one of the most important pieces of bedding in your home. It comes into contact with your face and hair every night, so it's no surprise that it can harbor a lot of bacteria. In fact, a study by the Sleep Research Society found that pillowcases can contain up to 10 times more bacteria than a toilet seat!
So, how often should you change your pillowcase? The general rule of thumb is once a week. However, there are a few factors that may require you to change your pillowcase more or less often.
Sweating: If you're a sweaty sleeper, you'll need to change your pillowcase more often. Sweat can create a breeding ground for bacteria, so it's important to wash away any excess moisture as soon as possible.
Acne: If you have acne-prone skin, you may also want to change your pillowcase more often. The oils and dirt from your skin can build up on your pillowcase and clog your pores, leading to breakouts.
Allergies: If you have allergies, you'll need to be especially careful about changing your pillowcase. Dust mites, which are tiny insects that live in dust, can trigger allergies and asthma. Washing your pillowcase regularly can help to reduce the number of dust mites and keep your allergies under control.
In addition to changing your pillowcase regularly, there are a few other things you can do to keep it clean and free of bacteria.
Wash your pillowcase in hot water. The higher the temperature, the better at killing bacteria the water will be.
Use a mild detergent. Harsh detergents can irritate your skin and make acne worse.
Air-dry your pillowcase. Tumble drying your pillowcase can damage the fabric and make it more likely to harbor bacteria.
Get a new pillow every one to two years. Pillows can become worn and dirty over time, so it's important to replace them regularly.
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By following these tips, you can help to keep your pillowcase clean and free of bacteria, which can improve your skin health and reduce your risk of allergies. Here are some additional tips for keeping your pillowcase clean and fresh:
Use a pillowcase made from natural fiber, such as cotton or linen. These materials are more breathable than synthetic fibers, which can help to reduce moisture and bacteria buildup.
Avoid using fabric softener on your pillowcase. Fabric softeners can coat the fabric and make it difficult for the pillowcase to absorb moisture.
If you have acne-prone skin, you may want to consider using an acne-fighting pillowcase cover. These covers are designed to help absorb excess oil and dirt, which can help to prevent breakouts.
If you have allergies, you may want to consider using an allergy-proof pillowcase cover. These covers are designed to block dust mites and other allergens, which can help to reduce allergy symptoms.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your pillowcase clean and fresh, which can improve your sleep quality and overall.