You should wash new sheets before using them for the first time to remove dust or allergens, make your bedding softer, and even help it fit better.
We spoke to experts at 6 of the leading sustainable bedding brands, including Boll & Branch, PlushBeds, and Sleep & Beyond, and found that every one recommends washing sheets first.
Let's start by examining why you need to wash brand-new sheets and bedding, and what happens if you don't.
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The main reason to wash new sheets and bedding before using them is to get rid of any dust, residues, and potential contaminants from manufacturing and packaging. Washing helps make sure your bedding is fresh and hygienic, and free of any irritants that might trigger allergies or sensitivities.
Some organic bedding brands like Boll & Branch recommend laundering sheets first because they design fabrics slightly oversized to allow for shrinkage.
Other brands, like Sleep & Beyond, note that their sheets become softer with each laundry cycle, so laundering them first helps you get a more comfortable feel from day one.
The following table provides a summary of the bedding manufacturers we surveyed, detailing the materials used, whether washing before first use is recommended, and the specific care instructions provided by each brand.
| Brand | Material | Wash Before First Use? | Care Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boll & Branch | Organic Cotton | Yes. Brand does not use chemical sizing agents, so washing helps shrink to fit. | Wash in cold water. |
| PlushBeds | Organic Cotton | Yes. | Machine wash warm or cold. |
| Sleep & Beyond | Organic Cotton | Yes. Product gets softer with each wash. | Machine wash in warm water. |
| Naturepedic | Organic Cotton | Yes, to ensure proper fit and cleanliness. | Machine wash medium or cold. |
| Avocado | Natural Linen | Yes, suggested but not essential. | Machine wash on a gentle cycle with similar colors in cold water. |
| Delilah Home | Organic Hemp | Yes, to ensure optimal softness and cleanliness. | Machine wash cold on a gentle cycle, separately. |
While these organic brands emphasize gentle care, it's important to note that washing cheaper synthetic bed sheets is also best practice, but that it may not solve all the problems inherent in this type of material.
Cheaper synthetic bedding products are often treated with chemicals, dyes, or preservatives that may cause skin irritation ("Fabrics for atopic dermatitis" by Rupert Mason, 2008). Washing synthetic bedding may reduce surface chemical residues, but it does not eliminate all embedded substances.
Now that we've covered why washing is advisable, let's examine what happens when you don't follow this advice.
If you don’t wash your bedding before first use, you may be exposed to dust, lint, and microscopic debris that accumulate during manufacturing and storage.
There is no conclusive evidence that unwashed sheets cause permanent harm, but particles can trigger allergies, cause itching and skin irritation, or lead to respiratory discomfort, especially for those sensitive to airborne contaminants.
Unlaundered bedding may also retain excess fibers or weaving residues that affect breathability and texture.
Some sheets (such as Boll & Branch) arrive slightly oversized by design to account for natural shrinkage. In these cases, if you skip the first wash, it results in a loose or improper fit.
To maintain hygiene and the integrity of your bedding materials, proper laundry techniques are essential. Here's how to wash your new sheets correctly.
To wash your sheets properly, follow these steps.
To maintain optimal hygiene and comfort, here's how often you should wash your sheets.
Dr. Lisa Ackerley, a Chartered Environmental Health Practitioner, recommends washing bedding once every week, or once every two weeks if you shower before bed and sleep in pajamas.
If you sleep with pets in your bed, we recommend increasing the frequency to 2-3 times per week.
These instructions apply to all other bedding types, including blankets, mattress pads, and comforters, although these do not need to be cleaned as often.
As well as washing regular sheets, many people have specific questions about whether to launder other types of bedding. Here are the most common questions we receive.
Yes, you should always wash crib bedding before use because babies have sensitive skin and developing immune systems, and are more vulnerable to irritants in unwashed fabrics.
To ensure safety, wash crib sheets, blankets, and mattress covers with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent. Avoid softeners and harsh chemicals, as they can leave behind residues that may cause skin irritation.
Using a warm water cycle can help eliminate bacteria and dust mites, but always check the care label to prevent damage.
Yes, you should wash a new blanket before using it to remove any fibers, loose threads, or environmental particles it has picked up during production, which may affect cleanliness and comfort.
The best washing method depends on the fabric. Check the care label and use a gentle detergent like Seventh Generation or Ecover, which are free from synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals
For organic blankets, washing preserves the purity of the material by removing any natural fiber debris. A low-heat or air-dry method helps maintain softness and prevents shrinkage.
Yes, you should wash a new comforter before use. Comforters are often stored in plastic packaging, which can trap odors and moisture, leading to a stale or unpleasant smell.
Since comforters are bulkier than sheets, check the care label to determine if machine washing is safe. Use a large-capacity washer with a mild, natural detergent and a gentle cycle.
If the comforter is too large for a home machine, use a commercial washer at a laundromat. For down or wool-filled comforters, spot clean or use professional laundering to protect the filling.
