Washing sheets at 30C gives dust mites a 'lukewarm bath' - temperature to kill them

Areas of the UK are in for sweaty nights as temperatures are forecast to hit 30C in some areas. According to experts, freshly cleaned sheets might help, but they won't stay fresh for long.

By Sophie Harris, Senior Lifestyle Reporter

Washing bedsheets

Washing sheets at 30C gives dust mites a 'lukewarm bath' - temperature to kill them (Image: Getty)

How often to change bedsheets is always up for debate, but it is generally recommended once a week.

Nick Ross, a cleaning expert from Home Spritz, has shared his advice on how frequently you should change bedding during a heatwave and the best way to wash them.

According to the expert, Britons should wash their sheets twice a week during a heatwave.

He said: “Twice a week might seem excessive, but with dead skin cells and body oils already building up, a heatwave brights another unpleasant addition - sweat.

“My rule of thumb is to wash your bedding whenever they don’t feel fresh anymore. Obviously that happens quicker in a right scorcher.”

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The expert added that situations in each household vary and Britons should do what they feel is right.

Twice a week is a “good rule” for everyone, but those with allergies, sensitive skin or even pets might need to stick to it more strictly.

There are even some rules to follow when washing the bedding too.

The cleaning expert noted: “I’ve seen some advice about washing sheets at cooler temperatures, 20 or 30 degrees, to save on the bill.

Close-up of a hand setting the dial on a washing machine

Bedding should be washed on 60C (Image: Getty)

“This makes sense but I suggest sticking to 60 degrees to make sure you blast dust mites instead of giving them a lukewarm bath."

It is important to check the material of your sheets however, polyester is best washed using warm water. When washing sheets, make sure they have enough room to circulate in the drum to ensure they do not tangle.

Similarly, similar rules apply to towels too and it is important to wash them at high temperatures to kill germs, bacteria and dust mites.

“If you want to save a few pennies on your energy bill when washing bedsheets, try drying the sheets outside instead of tossing them in the tumble dryer.”

Using sunlight to dry sheets can also help to kill any nasties which remain on the sheets.

It is important to check the material of your sheets however, polyester is best washed using warm water.

When washing sheets, make sure they have enough room to circulate in the drum to ensure they do not tangle.

Similarly, similar rules apply to towels too and it is important to wash them at high temperatures to kill germs, bacteria and dust mites.

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