Opening the windows and airing sheets in the sun are also recommended. Shumack suggests people with skin conditions wash even more often, adding that ironing sheets and pillowcases can also help sterilise them.
Most pillows will come with cleaning instructions on their tags, so it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s directions – but if you’ve cut your pillow tags off , down and synthetic pillows can typically be machine-washed, while memory-foam pillows should be soaked with gentle detergent, rinsed, gently squeezed, then left to air-dry.
To help people with asthma, replace pillows when you notice they’re starting to lose their lustre; some manufacturers suggest doing this every couple of years.Duvets – and likely other covers, such as blankets – can also collect dust mites, so these should be at least aired, and ideally washed, regularly. Many duvets and covers are dry-clean only, so pay close attention to the manufacturer’s directions.
Either way, if you do want to get rid of your duvet or pillow, “the crafty ones among us can upcycle them into large floor cushions, door stops or use for packing and moving,” saysThe mattress