Something 17,000 times filthy than a toilet seat—would you put your face down on it? Not likely. But according to a recent research by the mattress brand Amerisleep, that’s exactly what you’re doing if you haven’t washed your pillowcase in a week.
According to the study, after seven days, pillowcases can harbor up to three million bacteria, making them the ideal environment for dust mites, bacteria that cause acne, and other undesirable microbes. This accumulation is caused by dead skin cells, perspiration, saliva, and even residual makeup, which turns your comfortable pillow into a breeding ground for bacteria.
Particularly for those with sensitive skin or asthma, experts caution that unclean pillowcases can cause allergies, skin outbreaks, and even breathing problems. Additionally, eating in bed or sharing a bed with pets may increase the number of microorganisms.
How frequently should you wash your pillowcase, then? If you use heavy hair products, experience night sweats, or have oily skin, dermatologists advise doing it at least once a week. Effective bacterial removal is facilitated by washing with hot water and a powerful detergent.
Since silk pillowcases absorb less moisture and oil than cotton, you might want to use them if you’re prone to extending your laundry days. To keep things fresh in between washes, you may also switch out your pillowcases every few days.
In the end, using a fresh pillowcase promotes healthier skin, less allergies, and better sleep in addition to hygiene. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I washed this?” the next time you get into bed. It’s probably time to throw it in the laundry if you have to think about it too much.
