Keep your bedding as dreamy as possible with cleaning and storage tips that ensure the quality and extend the life of your organic sheets, duvet covers, comforters, and pillows.
Washing
We create GOTS-certified bedding from organic cotton in the safest ways possible—so it’s probably no surprise that we recommend using laundry detergents in that same spirit! Be on the lookout for organic and plant-based detergents that are free from phosphates, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. (Don’t have a favorite? The Cradle to Cradle Certified Products database is a great place to start.)
Skip out on conventional fabric softener—it’s full of chemicals, plus it coats fabric fibers and makes them less breathable. And if you wish to treat your whites with bleach, pick a non-chlorine version and consider only using it when really needed.
Tip
Before you load, button all buttons and zip all zippers—this prevents catching, snagging, pulling, and post-laundry sad faces.
For better results, try not to overfill the machine, and resist the urge to throw towels in with your bedding, as they tend to produce lint that can stick to your sheets.
While you’ve probably always heard that hot water is your best bet when washing bedding, it’s better to turn the dial to cold. Hot water contributes to weakened fibers, faded colors, and shrinkage. Bonus: Using cold water saves energy, meaning there’s less impact on the planet (and your wallet).
Washing a comforter? You’ll most likely need access to a large capacity machine.
Drying
Line-dry indoors or out whenever you can, staying out of direct sunlight. There are lots of advantages here: not only does it reduce energy use and help bedding last longer, but also makes fabrics feel and smell fresher.
If you need to use a dryer, switch to a low setting, as higher temps can shrink bedding, deteriorate fibers, and fade colors.
Take a pass on conventional dryer sheets, which contain the chemicals and synthetic fragrances you—and your bedding—don’t need. Check around for conscious alternatives instead.
We don’t process our bedding with formaldehyde to prevent wrinkles, but there are a few (safer!) ways to help reduce them. If fabrics get twisted during the wash cycle, untangle them before they hit the dryer. And as soon as a load finishes—or even when bedding is still slightly damp—remove it from the machine and put it right back on your bed for a smoother look.
Wash Frequency
Sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers: Every 1- 2 weeks (even more when someone is sick).
Comforters, pillows, and pillow shams: 2-4 times a year, and whenever spills or stains happen.
Decorative pillows:Follow instructions on the individual pillow’s label, but spot clean as necessary.
Storage
Before folding and storing your bedding, make sure everything is completely dry. That way, you’ll avoid mildew—and the musty smell that can come with it.
Your organic bedding contains natural fibers that need to breathe, so store it in cool, dry place with enough circulation (think linen closet, dresser, or armoire). Avoid storage made of cardboard or plastic, which can result in yellowing.
To keep matching sheet sets tidy and together, use this trick: fold your sheets and one pillowcase together, tuck them into the remaining pillowcase, and fold it all into a neat, easy-to-grab, sanity-saving packet.
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