Remove sheet stains ‘particularly well’ with 18p ‘natural’ method

A new survey has found that nearly 40% of Brits enjoy eating in bed, while 41% are not fans of the practice. However, a staggering four in five people consider finding crumbs in their sheets to be a major turn-off.

To address this issue, the managing director of The Odd Company, which carried out the research, has shared some budget-friendly tips on how to keep bedding fresh after in-bed dining.

Andrew Seed said: “Bedding is an investment, so stains and spills can be a real concern when snacking in bed. Fortunately, while some bedding may come with a premium price tag, keeping it clean doesn’t have to. With the right care and simple cleaning solutions, you can enjoy the comfort without the worry.”

Budget-friendly tips to clean stained sheets

One of Andrew’s top tips is to shake out your sheets before washing them: “Before washing your bedding, give your sheets a good shake outdoors. This helps remove any crumbs or debris before they end up swirling around your washing machine.”

Another cost-effective solution is to use a lint roller, which can be purchased for as little as 75p. This can help remove any remaining crumbs or debris from your sheets.

Andrew advised: “If your sheets are freshly washed or you’d rather not do a full laundry load, a lint roller or handheld vacuum works wonders. This lifts stubborn crumbs without pushing them into the carpet or leaving unwanted leftovers in the bed.”

Another tip is lemon juice, which costs just 18p. Andrew said: “It may seem counterintuitive to add more food to a stain, but lemon juice is a natural bleaching agent. Apply it to the stain, leave the fabric in sunlight for a while, then wash as normal. This eco-friendly method works particularly well on food stains.”

Discussing baking soda, priced at 65p, Andrew suggested: “For tougher stains, try using baking soda. Simply dampen the stain, sprinkle over some baking soda, and then wash as normal. This helps break down stubborn marks without harsh chemicals.”

He also highlighted an important tip when dealing with spills: “Never rub a stain, as this can push it deeper into the fabric. Instead, gently blot the area to lift the stain without spreading it further.”

Wrapping up his advice, Andrew concluded: “Eating in can be a cosy way to indulge that allows you to stay comfortable. Whether you’re having an intimate date night with a partner or enjoying some quiet time alone after your social battery dies, eating in bed can be a really relaxing experience.

“However, it’s important to keep a balance. Avoid eating too late, as it can affect your sleep, and be mindful of foods that might disrupt your comfort – maybe sauce-filled burgers are a no-go right before bed.”

The survey, conducted in January 2025 with a sample of 500 Brits, checked the price of a lint roller at IKEA and the cost per lemon and baking soda at Aldi.