Like other items in your home, your bedding accessories also experience wear and tear. The question is, "When should you finally let go of your bedding items?"
We all have our favourite spots and items in our homes: a consistent spot to sit on the sofa, a favourite shirt that we wear whenever we get the chance, and the quilt that we've been using for years. These things and places make us feel extra comfortable in our homes. But part of treasuring these things is taking care of them, especially our lovely bedding.
When sleeping or simply staying on your bed, fallen hair, dirt, dead skin cells, sweat, and allergens build up on your pillowcases and your favourite quilt. Even with the presence of a mattress protector, your mattress can accumulate dust mites and other particles that might cause discomfort in the long run. To prevent this dirty and itchy disaster from interrupting your rest, practise the regular changing of your bedding accessories. Yes, no matter how precious they are.
Here are some quick tips to properly change your bedding accessories so you can enjoy your snooze.
How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Pillows?
One to two years. We might think that pillows have a longer lifespan than this, but we sometimes overlook what happens to our pillows when we sleep. When a pillow is too old, it becomes saggy or bumpy and uncomfortable to use. This causes discomfort and may lead to sleep deprivation.
Even if your pillows still feel comfortable and you haven't noticed any sagging yet, it is still advisable to replace your pillow after using it for one to two years. This is because your pillow absorbs oils and sweat, which accumulate dead skin cells and fallen hair over time. These things that we overlook become the perfect breeding ground for dust mites and allergens.
If you are experiencing severe allergies, depending on your hygiene practices, you may need to replace your pillows every six months. To protect your pillow from being nasty, use pillowcases or protectors and regularly wash them to lessen the pillow's contact with dirt. Update your pillowcases every seven years at most.
When getting your next pillow, make sure to look for the proper support and comfort that you need. Take note of the firmness of your pillow, especially if you suffer from neck and shoulder pain. If you have problems sleeping, look for a pillow that will make you as comfortable as possible. There are innovative aromatherapy pillows available online in Singapore.
How Often Do You Need to Update Your Bed Sheet?
Optimally, two years is a good time to give your bed sheet a refresh. Bed sheets are more than the decorative fabric that makes your bedroom charming and welcoming. One of the main enemies of your bed sheet, aside from you wanting a new design for your bedroom, is staining. Going through regular washing, the fabric breaks down and fades. The wear and tear on your bed sheet is determined by its quality and how frequently you wash it. Getting a high-quality bedsheet is key to preserving its lifespan. Bed sheets made with cotton are more comfortable and durable than other materials, as they can last up to seven years. Other bed sheet varieties last for two years. To keep your bed sheet clean and comfortable, wash it weekly or every two weeks.
How Often Do You Need to Change Your Mattress Protector?
One to two years. The mattress protector plays a big role in preserving the quality and lifespan of your mattress. Stains, oil, moisture, dirt, and other unwanted substances first go through the mattress protector before reaching the mattress. This means that your mattress becomes less susceptible to dust mite and allergen contamination. Having a mattress protector prevents premature breakdown of the materials in your mattress. Wash your mattress protector on a regular basis to prevent dirt and substance buildup, and keep an eye out for stain spots or holes.
How Often Do You Need to Replace Your Duvet and Comforter?
Five years. Duvets and comforters have a longer lifespan than other bedding accessories because they are usually made with thick and high-quality materials, but this does not mean that we can care less for this cosy bedroom item. Like bedding and pillowcases, duvets also get dirty with skin cells and sweat from everyday use. Wash your duvet or comforter at least once a month to remove unnecessary substances. Spot stains and clean them immediately to prevent them from building up and ruining the quality of your duvet or comforter.
Signs that You Need to Update Your Bedding Accessories
Sometimes, you don’t need to go through all those years to update your bedding accessories. Factors like the environment, usage, hygiene, and quality of materials affect the lifespan of these items. Go through this quick self-assessment to know if you already need a bedding update:
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Pillow |
As your pillow ages, it loses its ability to support your head, neck, and shoulder during sleep. If your pillow is already lumpy, saggy, and uncomfortable, it is time to replace it. If you wake up with an aching head or neck, it means that your pillow does not provide you with the proper support anymore. If you often sneeze or feel itchy, dust mites might already be camping out too much on your pillow. |
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Bed sheet |
The colour of your bed sheet will change, and it will look thinner over time. Older bed sheets are more brittle and easily ripped. Once your bed sheet frays or starts to bear holes, you need an update. |
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Duvet |
Your duvet is designed to provide warmth during the colder seasons. If your duvet does not provide the warmth that you need because of the flattened fill and if the duvet is hard to fluff after washing, you should consider getting a new one. |
Your Mattress Needs an Update Too
Give your 10-year-old mattress a much-needed break.
Of course, this depends on the material and quality of your mattress. The best way to determine if you need a mattress upgrade is to check its appearance, the physical quality of its fill, and the comfort that it provides. If you feel random lumps, sagging, squeaking, overall discomfort, or sleep deprivation, it's time to freshen up and update your mattress.
There are a myriad of choices to choose from when buying a mattress in Singapore, especially the online stores that you can visit 24/7. If you wake up in the middle of the night and browse the net, you might want to check for a new mattress that suits your needs.
Upgrading the look and warmth of your bedroom? Check out our Bedroom Furniture Buying Guide
As much as you invest in quality furniture and appliances, you also deserve to get a good night’s rest with a sturdy bed frame, a supportive mattress, and cosy bedding accessories. Never underestimate the impact of these simple items on your sleep quality, health, and overall well-being.