There’s nothing quite as luxurious as the thrill of laying the brand-new bedsheets or surrounding yourself in a new blanket. They’re fresh, they’re soft, and sometimes even have that “just out of the package” smell we all love! But before you jump into bed with them, here’s a relevant question: Should you be washing your new sheets and blankets before using?
Since fresh-out-of-the-package implies safe and clean, many people omit this step. The reality is somewhat different, though, and it has a lot to do with the journey your sheets take to get to your house.
A crisp response to your question, just like the newly bought bedsheets and blankets at your home. However, it is essential to understand why this “YES.”
REASONS:
Any textile product (Bedsheets, to be specific) goes through several manufacturing and supply chain processes before reaching your home.
- First, the fabric (natural or synthetic) used to make the bedsheets are very coarse. So, to make it soft and mellow, the manufacturers have to expose the material to chemicals such as butane, propane, and formaldehyde. In addition, various lubricants, detergents, bleaches, brighteners, dyes, etc., are also used for this purpose.
- Second, many textile manufacturing units in India operate in dusty and dirty conditions, wherein most factories are contaminated by insects such as cockroaches and rats. There is not much accountability for cleanliness or product handling. However, we at Bedsheets India works directly with the bedsheet makers and fabric weavers without the help of middlemen to ensure that the quality of the bedsheets is not compromised.
- Third, during the transportation process, no matter how well the packaging is, there is always a possibility of your sheets collecting dirt and being subject to attacks by pests/insects.
CONSEQUENCES IF NOT WASHED:
- You won’t notice any visible chemicals or contaminants on the bedsheets because of their tiny presence, which thus can make you not worry about any consequences.
- However, not washing your bedsheets can lead to skin-related issues such as itchy and irritating sensations, rashes, swollen eyes, red patches, wheezing, and headaches.
- Moreover, washing at a very initial stage of purchase can also help assess the quality of the bedsheet as defects in the sheets become more apparent after a good wash. Defective pieces such as loose strings, tears, or holes on the bedsheets might get revealed during this process. If you find a defect during the return policy time frame, you will likely be eligible for a return or refund.
- Furthermore, brand new bedsheets and blankets sometimes have a very unpleasant smell. The smell is primarily due to the highly intensive chemicals used. Therefore, it is always advisable to wash the sheets before usage to reduce exposure to toxins where possible.
WAYS TO WASH NEW SHEETS:
First, read the cleaning instructions given on the label, as different fabrics need specific care. Apart from that, given below are some tips and tricks for washing new sheets:
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: A mixture of a cup of Baking Soda and half a cup of Vinegar will help remove the harmful chemicals and eliminate the unpleasant smell from bedsheets. Moreover, this natural blend will also loosen and soften the sheets to a great extent.
- Fabric Softeners or Dryer Sheets: Both the items have a common goal of making the bedsheets soft and giving them a pleasant smell. The difference is that one is for use in the washing machine and the other in the dryer.
- Air Dry over Tumble Dry: Excessive tumble dry can sometimes damage the fibers in the bedsheets. Hence, it is always better to dry them outside in the sun or leave them overnight to dry under the fan.
Final Note
Finally, there is no hard and fast rule for washing your bedsheets; however, it’s good to do so for your well-being and hygiene.
