Here Is The Best Way To Care For Your Alternative Linens

On average, Americans spend 36 years of their life in bed, while 53 percent of them can confidently say that they actually even like their bed, according to the NY Post. That works out to be roughly 13,140 days that someone will spend in bed. Considering this fact, it’d be ideal to rest on a bed that is -- at the very least -- comfortable...and clean.

The most common material used to create bedding is cotton. Due to its durability and affordable pricing, it’s often the favorite go-to material. However, this is not the only prized option on the market. When it comes to comfortability and sustainable properties, some cotton alternatives, like bamboo, silk, hemp and tencel lyocell (also known as Tencel) are flourishing with a plethora of pros. Tencel, which is made from the wood pulp of a eucalyptus tree, possesses natural anti-microbial properties and is extremely breathable -- a perk for hyper perspirant sleepers. Similarly, bamboo, hemp and silk all contain hypoallergenic properties,another perk for those with sensitive skin. For these materials, if you want to get the most out of their naturally occurring benefits, then proper maintenance is crucial.

Here are a few pro tips on how to care for your cotton alternative bedding:

Washing

The key factors to washing your alternative bedding include choice of detergent, water temperature and the type of wash cycle. Harsh cleaning agents such as bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and citric acid (commonly found in Lysol and Clorox Fabric Sanitizer sprays) deteriorate the natural fibers in these alternative materials. Ironically, using fabric softeners adversely contributes to the weakening of the threads. Likewise, using heavy, fragranceloaded detergents may cause dirt buildup. This can lead to skin irritation and inflammation--and we don’t want that.

Additionally, a general rule of thumb is to always wash your bedding with warm or cool water,preferably the delicate cycle, if available.

Drying

When drying your bedding, it is ideal to use a low temperature. Over drying fabrics, like hemp and silk can cause damage to the natural fibers and promote shrinkage, so it’s best to handle with care. Please also keep in mind that dryer sheets are not recommended when drying your load, as it coats the material and causes the threads to become brittle and frayed.

Folding and Storing

While the above-mentioned tips are critical for proper bedding maintenance, storing is also just as essential. It is best to completely dry your sheets before folding them. This prevents the possibility of mildew developing in the fibers. Storing your bedding in plastic containers or bins also not recommended. The natural threads need to breathe, that way, moisture doesn’t get trapped. Cool and dry areas are ideal, so placing your bedding in a closet or somewhere that receives little-to-no sun exposure is best.

Following these steps should help to foster some of the best sleep of your life. If you are looking to step out of traditional cotton and into what your body deserves, check out our Pure Prana Bamboo bedding and our French Linen Set. Here’s to wishing you a happy and clean slumber!