Sheets get dirty and it’s important to change them often. There’s no debate about that, right? What about the comforter? When was the last time you washed yours? 

Many of us don't clean our comforters as often as we should. There is a perception that they don't get as dirty as bed sheets. While it’s true that sheets get dirtier quicker because they are in direct contact with the body, comforters can get quite dirty and unhygienic as well, and that’s bad for your skin and health. 

What’s Hiding in Your Comforter?

The same stuff that makes your comforty dirty is the same stuff that also builds up in your comforter or duvet.

Spending hours each night on the bed means you leave plenty of things from your skin on the sheets including dead skin cells, body oils, skin products, sweat and dirt. These also collect on the comforter, especially if you don't use a top sheet or duvet cover. 

These create the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive, especially when you sleep at night and keep the bed toasty and warm. Researchers have found that bed linen is riddled with bacteria, including fecal bacteria.  

Your comforter is also home to tiny particles of dust, pollen, dust mites, pet hair and other allergens. Mold and mildew can also grow inside the comforter especially if you live in a humid area or you sweat a lot at night. 

Even if you have a top sheet or a duvet cover, dirt, bacteria and germs will eventually find their way to the comforter. You won’t need to wash it as often, but it’s still important to launder it regularly. 

The Dangers of a Dirty Comforter 

The problems with unwashed bedding go beyond just a foul smell. The buildup of bacteria and other germs can cause serious health problems. 

One of the most common issues with a dirty comforter is acne. This happens when dirt, oils, skin cells and other gunk on the comforter transfer onto the skin and clog pores. If bacteria also enters your pores, it could result in a painful type of inflammatory acne called cystic acne. 

A dirty comforter can also cause rashes and skin irritation. 

Dirty bedding can also lead to other kinds of infections including yeast and urinary tract infection, particularly if you sleep naked or in underwear. Other risks include athlete’s foot, ringworms and eczema. 

The other major problem with not washing your comforter often is allergens. Even if you are not allergic, breathing in dust, dust mites, and mold spores could cause allergy-like symptoms like a stuffy nose, eye and throat irritation, runny nose and coughing. These symptoms can get worse if you already suffer from allergies or a respiratory problem like asthma. 

These health problems and symptoms eventually start ruining your sleep quality. Everytime you get in bed, a sniffle begins or your skin starts itching and you can’t go to sleep. 

With sleep deprivation comes even more problems like daytime fatigue, higher stress levels, lack of concentration and poor judgment. Poor sleep also increases your risk of various health problems like diabetes, cancer and hypertension. 

So, yeah, not to be an alarmist but that unwashed comforter could lead to some pretty serious problems down the road. You are at even higher risk if you are also lax when it comes to washing bed sheets, the pillowcase and other bedding.    

How Often Should You Wash Your Comforter? 

We have a separate post discussing how often you should wash your comforter. It depends on several factors. 

For example, if you don't have a top sheet or a duvet cover, meaning the comforter is in direct contact with your skin, machine wash or dry clean the comforter every couple of weeks. And if you sweat a lot at night, consider washing it weekly. 

Washing a comforter too often reduces its longevity. So it’s a good idea to get a duvet cover for it or at least use a top sheet. With a top sheet, it’s enough to clean a comforter every 1-2 months. With a quality duvet cover, you can do it just a couple of times a year. You only clean the cover once a week. 

In addition to washing your comforter regularly, here are other ways to keep your bed hygienic and safe. 

• Get antibacterial bedding that actively kills any bacteria or fungi that gets on it. Hercleon has soft and breathable Jax Sheets as well as the all-season Jax Comforter. Antibacterial bedding reduces the need to wash your bedding frequently. You can go longer between washes and you’ll be fine. 
• Don't get into the bed with outside clothes. 
• Take a shower or bath before getting in bed.