Things you use everyday that could ruin your bedsheets

Team L&M

Irrespective of the weather, certain things that are synonymous with each of them could actually have an adverse effect on our bed linen. Creams and oils that we apply to our bodies, as well as certain bugs that may have gotten into our bedrooms, can cause damage, some of which could be irreparable.

Whether you’ve applied sun cream, moisturizers, after-sun lotions or insect repellant spray, or you’ve happened to notice small insects or bugs appearing on your bedding after a day of having the window open, it’s much easier to prevent damage from happening than attempting to fix it once it has occurred.

Mr Rajeev Merchant, President Domestic Retail, Indo Count, Layers says, “Your bed is your sanctuary, a place where you relieve the stresses of the day and relax. We spend some crucial hours of our days sleeping, which is why it is imperative that our beds are clean and germ-free so as to keep us healthy. Rather than damage control, one should take preventative measures to sure they keep their bedsheets from being ruined due to a few external factors.”

Insects

You may not think twice about leaving your bedroom window open just to let some cool breeze in. However, this means that small insects or bugs could end up on your bed linen.

Moths getting into your bedroom can be particularly problematic as they can leave holes in your sheets or any clothing that you may have left out.

To prevent this, using fresh fragrances is key. Popping some dry lavender or cedar wood around your bed will keep the aroma of the room nice and fresh, and will also repel bugs like moths and flies.

Sun cream and Moisturisers 

Most sun creams and moisturizers are made from oils and chemicals, which, over time will break down the natural fibers of cotton or silk bed linen. ‘One of the main ingredients in some creams that can cause stains are avobenzone. One of the preventative measures is to find a cream that doesn’t contain this to keep sheets clean and pristine.

Other than changing which sun cream or  moisturisers you use, you can also protect your bedding by using a flat sheet underneath your duvet. Fold a section of that sheet to create an almost ‘apron’ effect, which will ensure that you and your favourite duvet cover won’t come into contact as you sleep.

Insect repellent

Another product that many of us often use in India is insect repellent, which contains chemicals that could be harmful to your sheets and clothing. Take precaution if you have the spray or cream on – don’t sleep with your favourite duvet set on and apply the sprays outdoors and wash them off before you get into bed.

How to remove the stains

Should the worst happen and your sheets do get stained, you can use the age-old treatment of bicarbonate of soda or talcum powder before you wash them.

For oil stains, the talc will absorb the oil, leaving the washing powder to remove the marks. Once washed, hang your clothes out to dry as the sun is good at naturally bleaching stained white clothing safely.

So here are some tips and tricks for the preventative measure you can take to keep your bed sheets clean and healthy, saving you from ruining those fabulous and elegant-looking bedsheets!