You just bought a lovely new set of sheets. They feel soft, look crisp and clean, and you can’t wait to enjoy that “new bedding” feel as you drift off to sleep. But before you put them on your bed, you wonder – should you wash new sheets before using them for the first time?
There are good arguments on both sides of this debate. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and risk tolerance. Here is an in-depth look at the pros and cons so you can decide if pre-washing new sheets is right for you.
Reasons to Pre-Wash New Sheets
Washing sheets before first use has some potential benefits:
Remove Chemical Residues
During manufacturing, new sheets may be treated with various chemicals and textile finishes. Sizing chemicals like starch help reduce friction during weaving and give sheets a crisp feel. Other chemicals provide benefits like fire retardancy, wrinkle resistance, stain protection and more.
While government regulations ensure these chemicals are safe, some people prefer to wash them off before sheets touch their skin. Pre-washing gives you peace of mind that any residual processing chemicals will be removed.
Eliminate Dye Transfer
Dark colored or patterned sheets sometimes contain excess dye that can bleed or rub off the first few washes. Pre-washing helps bind the dye more permanently to the fabric, preventing potential transfer of color onto your mattress or other laundry.
Soften Stiff Fabrics
Some new sheets have a stiff, scratchy feel right out of the package. This is especially common with low-cost polyester and cotton/poly blends. Washing helps soften the fibers and make the sheets feel more pleasant against your skin.
Shrink Fabrics
Natural fibers like cotton and linen will shrink slightly when washed. Pre-washing ensures any shrinkage occurs before the sheets are on your bed, so they continue to fit properly wash after wash.
Remove Irritants
Microscopic dust, debris and allergens from the manufacturing and packaging processes can cling to new bedding. For people with allergies or sensitive skin, washing sheets first can help avoid irritation.
Improve Absorbency
Fabric conditioners and softeners applied during manufacturing can leave a coating that slightly reduces the sheets’ ability to absorb moisture. Washing removes these coatings so pre-washed sheets feel more absorbent.
Remove Odors
Even though they look clean, some new sheets have a noticeable chemical odor from the manufacturing process. Pre-washing helps get rid of any “new” smell.
Gain Peace of Mind
For many people, the idea of putting brand new sheets straight on the bed without washing just doesn’t feel right. Pre-washing provides peace of mind that you are sleeping on fresh, clean linen.
Reasons to Skip Pre-Washing Sheets
While washing new sheets first has some benefits, there are also good reasons you may choose to skip this extra step:
Sheets Are Preshrunk
If the packaging says the sheets have been pre-shrunk or pre-washed during manufacturing, shrinkage is not a concern. The fibers have already been through initial wash processing.
No Issues with Irritation
If you don’t have sensitive skin and have never reacted to chemicals on new sheets, irritation is less likely to be a problem. For most people, residues will wash away over a few regular washes.
No Evidence of Dye Transfer
If white or solid light colored sheets show no signs of excess dye rub-off on your hands when you unfold them, dye transfer is unlikely. You can inspect seams and joints for color fastness.
You Prefer the Crisp Feel
Some people enjoy the extra stiffness and crisp drape of brand new sheets, at least for the first few nights, and don’t want to wash away sizing.
Convenience and Time Savings
Skipping pre-washing means one less load of laundry. For those with limited time or access to laundry facilities, this can be an important benefit.
Reduce Wear and Tear
Every wash causes some wear on sheets. Skipping an initial wash preserves the lifespan of the fabric and prevents premature thinning or pilling.
Best Practices for Pre-Washing Sheets
If you opt to pre-wash your sheets, follow these tips for best results:
Check the Care Label
Follow any special washing instructions on the label to avoid damaging or prematurely aging the fabric. Pay attention to recommended wash temperatures and if bleach can be used.
Wash Separately
Wash new sheets by themselves to prevent loose dyes from transferring onto other laundry. Wash in cold or warm water as recommended on the label using a gentle, dye-free detergent.
Skip the Fabric Softener
Don’t use fabric softener or dryer sheets for pre-washing. Residual coatings could impact absorbency and negate the benefits of pre-washing.
Choose a Gentle Cycle
Wash on a delicate or gentle cycle to limit agitation that could damage fibers. Depending on the sheets, permanent press may also be an option.
Line Dry or Low Heat
If possible, hang sheets on a clothesline or flat to air dry. If machine drying, use low heat to prevent shrinkage and resist wrinkles. Remove from dryer immediately.
Repeat if Needed
Inspect sheets after washing. If any excess dye or chemicals remain, launder again as needed until the wash water runs clear.
FAQs About Pre-Washing Sheets
Still deciding if it’s worth the extra time and effort? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Are store-bought sheets dirty?
Not usually. Most major retailers sell high quality sheets that arrive in clean condition from the manufacturer. However, they may have residual chemicals or dyes from production.
Can chemicals on sheets cause health issues?
Government regulation ensures chemicals used on sheets are safe for human contact once fixed onto the fabric. Pre-washing is mainly for peace of mind. Irritation risks are low for most people.
Do you really need to wash linen sheets before use?
Yes, pre-washing is recommended for linen. Linen fibers release pectin when washed, which provides softness and shine. Pre-washing helps linen sheets drape and feel better.
Can new sheets shrink too much if pre-washed wrong?
It’s unlikely. But to be safe, follow care label instructions and opt for cooler water, delicate cycle and low dryer heat to avoid extreme shrinkage.
How many times should you wash new sheets?
One initial wash is sufficient for pre-treating purposes. After this, wash sheets normally whenever they become dirty or on your regular changing schedule.
Will pre-washing remove wrinkles from new sheets?
It may help relax some wrinkles but won’t completely remove them. You’ll likely need to press or steam out creases even after washing.
Can you just put new sheets in the dryer without washing first?
This is not recommended, as it could shrink or damage the fabric. Always wash sheets in water first before drying, even if just pre-treating.
The Verdict: Should You Pre-Wash New Sheets?
So what’s the final verdict – to pre-wash or not pre-wash?
Here are some general guidelines:
- Pre-wash pure linen, bamboo, silk or flannel sheets – these more delicate fabrics benefit from washing before use.
- Pre-wash dark sheets prone to dye transfer, especially reds and blues.
- Pre-wash if you have sensitive skin or require hypoallergenic bedding.
- Pre-wash cheap polyester sheets to improve texture.
- Skip pre-washing for high quality pre-shrunk cotton/polyester sheet blends.
- Skip pre-washing if you prefer crisp new sheets or want the convenience.
In the end, it’s a personal decision. Pre-washing is an extra step that provides some potential benefits but is not strictly necessary in most cases. Take into account your skin sensitivity, health priorities, convenience factors and any special fabric considerations to decide if it’s right for you.
With proper care, your new sheets will be fresh, comfortable and ready to enjoy whether you pre-wash or put them right on the bed. Here’s to many restful nights of sweet dreams!
Conclusion
The decision about whether or not to pre-wash brand new sheets largely comes down to personal preference. For those with sensitive skin, allergies or who just want peace of mind, pre-washing provides extra assurance that chemicals and excess dye have been removed before use. For others who appreciate the crisp feel of new sheets straight out of the package or want the convenience of skipping a laundering step, putting sheets directly on the bed is a perfectly fine option.
Carefully read fabric care labels and follow any special washing guidance from the manufacturer. If pre-washing, a short delicate cycle alone without fabric softener is sufficient in most cases. Understand any risks of dye transfer from bold colored sheets and make choices for your bedding accordingly. Store sheets properly between uses to minimize dirt and allergens settling into the fabric. With sensible care, new sheets – washed or unwashed – will provide many comfortable nights of restful sleep.