How to wash sheets

We all know that it’s important to get a good night’s rest, and fresh, clean bed sheets can help make your sleep more enjoyable. This step-by-step guide will show you how to wash bed sheets with the right settings for different fabrics.

How often should you wash your sheets?

Since germs, sweat, oils and more can build up fast, bed sheets should be washed at least once a week to keep them crisp and clean. If you or a family member tends to sweat while sleeping, you may want to wash sheets more often.

How to wash bed sheets: a step-by-step guide

Using the proper laundry cycle can help keep your bed sheets in the best condition. In general, the bulky/sheets washer cycle uses warm water, a low spin speed, more water and is designed to help keep sheets from tangling up. The ideal dryer setting is low to medium heat due to the fabric weight.

These washer and dryer settings may vary depending on the fabric. Some bed sheet fibers are more delicate than others and require gentle laundry care. Always check the care label for your sheets before washing and drying them.

Step 1: Consult the care label

As with any fabric, check the care label before washing bed sheets. Depending on the fabric type, you may need to use a specific wash or dry cycle.

Step 2: Treat any stains before washing

If there are any visible or stubborn stains, such as blood, use a pre-wash stain remover that’s safe for the fabric to treat the stains prior to washing. Select Whirlpool^® top load washers include a Pretreat Station, which features a built-in faucet and pretreat brush so you can soak, scrub and wash all in one spot.

Step 3: Load sheets and add detergent

Sheets should be washed in a separate load from comforters, towels and other items. Washing sheets with towels can cause pilling and excess lint to form on the sheets. Be sure to evenly distribute the sheets in the washer to avoid bunching and tangling. In top load models, place sheets loosely around the impeller or agitator to balance the load. To ensure optimal cleaning, don’t try to wash too many sheets at once.

If your washer has a detergent dispenser—whether it's a bulk dispenser like the Load & Go™ Dispenser or a single dose dispenser—follow the manufacturer’s instructions and add detergent as you would for a normal load. For washers without a dispenser, add detergent according to the detergent manufacturer’s recommendation. You can also use Swash™ Laundry Detergent, which is designed with a pre-measured pour dosage cap.

Step 4: Choose the right wash cycle and settings

Bed sheets should be washed in the warmest water appropriate for the fabric, using a sheets cycle or the cycle recommended in your washer’s use and care guide. If there isn’t a cycle specified, a normal or regular cycle will usually suffice for cotton, polyester or linen sheets. Certain fabrics like silk, satin or bamboo may require a more gentle or delicate cycle. Some washers, like Whirlpool^® top load models with Intuitive Controls, help you choose a cycle based on what you’re washing and how you’re washing it.

Step 5: Dry sheets in the dryer or line dry

Most sheets can be tumbled dry on low heat. Avoid drying them for too long or at too high of a temperature, as this can cause fabric damage. You can add rubber or wool dryer balls to the load to help with even drying and to help stop sheets from balling up.

For more delicate fabrics, like silk or satin, or to add some freshness to sturdier fabrics, line dry the sheets on a clothesline. If line drying isn’t an option, you can use the dryer on a no-heat or air dry setting.

Step 6: Fold and store sheets properly

Fold and stack sheet sets neatly and store them in a cool, dry spot to keep them fresh and clean.

Shop Whirlpool^® washers and dryers

Keeping your bed sheets in good condition is easy when you choose the right laundry cycle for your fabric. Whirlpool^® washers and dryers with Intuitive Touch Controls offer a range of settings to fit your laundry load. Simply select “what” and “how” you want to wash or dry your laundry. Washers and dryers from Whirlpool brand can help provide optimal fabric care by letting you create custom cycles based on what you’re washing.