Expert shares when you should clean your mattress, pillow and duvet

Cleaning your bed can feel like a time-consuming task, and while some people wash their bedding regularly, others do it far less often. And you may be surprised by how frequently it actually needs to be cleaned.

According to Which, there is a “general rule” UK households should aim to follow. It explains: “As a general rule, most people should be washing their bedding covers once per week – that’s bed sheets, pillow cases and duvet covers.”

When washing, use a temperature of 60C, as this is suitable for most fabrics. Lower temperatures may not effectively remove sweat or kill all bacteria. However, silk sheets should be washed at 30C using a gentle detergent to protect the fabric.

If you suffer from allergies or asthma, aim to wash your bedding more than once a week at 60C. Where possible, washing bedding at an even higher temperature may help alleviate your symptoms”, it says. However, always check the care label first and never assume the fabric can withstand high temperatures.

It suggests: “Washing your bedding regularly is also a good idea to help prevent bedbugs. Frequently changing your sheets will help you spot them, and washing and tumble drying at a high temperature can help eradicate them. Learn more in our guide to getting rid of bedbugs.”

How often should you wash a mattress topper?

Mattress toppers and protectors collect sweat, dust, and other reside over time, so they should be cleaned regularly. Washing them once every two to three months is generally enough.

How often should you wash pillows?

Which? notes that many feather, down, and microfibre pillows can be washed in a washing machine. The general recommendation is to clean them every four to six months.

It adds: “If you’re going to machine wash, choose a delicate cycle. Washing two pillows at once can help to keep them in position in the machine. Dry them on a low heat to protect from damage and fluff them back into shape.

“Memory foam pillows should not be machine washed, but you can usually remove the cover for cleaning. It’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully as washing a memory foam pillow against recommendations may invalidate your guarantee.”

Pillow protectors can help prevent allergens from building up on your pillows, but it is still recommended that you wash your pillows twice a year.

How often should you wash a mattress?

There is no strict rule for how often you should clean your mattress, as it depends on factors such as your home environment and how you use it. If you regularly spend time in bed working, eating, or relaxing, you may need to clean your mattress more often.

A good rule of thumb is to clean and refresh your mattress every six months and rotate it as often as the care instructions suggest. Always check the manufacturer’s advice, as some mattresses are not designed to be flipped.

It adds: “For allergy-sufferers, look out for the signs of an allergic reaction (runny nose, itchy eyes, dry throat) as these may signal it’s time to clean your mattress.”

How often should you wash a duvet?

Wash your duvet once or twice a year to keep it fresh. Many duvets can be cleaned at home, but the right method depends on the filling and your washing machine’s capacity. Always check the care label before washing, and if you’re worried about damaging it, consider using a professional dry cleaner.

Only wash your duvet in a washing machine if there is enough room for it to move around. The drum should not be too full, as water and detergent need space to work properly. For small stains, it’s usually better to treat them by hand first with detergent or stain remover.