We all have our favourite pair of pyjamas we come back to – time after time. Some of us may even have special pyjamas for lounging around in and feeling comfy when snuggled up on the couch.
But because they’re only worn inside the house and for sleeping (well, most of the time), the rules can seem different when it comes to PJ maintenance. So, how often should we be washing them and switching to a clean pair?
Do you need to wash your pyjamas daily?
“You might be surprised to know the answer is no!” says cleaning and laundry expert Laura Mountford, author of Live, Laugh, Laundry. “Like all of our clothing, many of us may be guilty of washing our pyjamas too frequently, or perhaps not enough. But in reality, pyjamas should be washed after every two or three wears. Washing them after every wear, unless they are actually stained, smelly or sweaty, is unnecessary – a waste of money, water and energy,” Ms Mountford adds.
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She suggests pyjamas can be left to air between wears, and this should be sufficient for them to freshen up ready for the next night – so putting them under your pillow probably isn’t the best idea.
Should you wash them more in the summer?
“I wash my pyjamas more in the summer when the nights are hot,” says Ms Mountford, “as sweat can cause bacteria growth, which will make them smell. And nobody wants to snuggle into bed in sweaty pyjamas, do they?”
What’s the most hygienic way to wash your pyjamas?
To achieve the most hygienic clean, wash your pyjamas at the highest temperature recommended on the garment care label. Using the right detergent is also crucial for achieving optimal results.
Are different materials more or less hygienic?
Natural fabrics such as cotton are the most hygienic, as they are breathable. Bacteria and sweat builds up less quickly on natural fabrics when compared to manmade fabrics such as polyester.
Cotton is also extremely durable and can withstand high temperature washes. Bamboo is another good fabric option for pyjamas. It’s very breathable whilst being effective at thermal regulating, to keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It’s also anti-bacterial, hypo-allergenic and odour-resistant.
What happens if you don’t wash pyjamas regularly?
Ms Mountford says: “Most of us wear our pyjamas for eight hours each night, so not washing them frequently enough can cause bacteria to grow, making them smelly and unhygienic… not very cosy at all. This may reduce the quality of your sleep,” she adds – noting it could also result in skin irritation.
Does it make a difference if you shower before bed or in the morning?
“Showering before bed keeps your pyjamas and bedding fresher for longer, as you are jumping into bed with a clean body, having already removed the dirt, bacteria and allergens from the day,” says Ms Mountford.
“Not showering before bed will cause these particles to be transferred onto your nightwear and bedding, which will cause them to get dirty and smelly more quickly.”
How often do you wash your pyjamas? Do you agree with the experts? Let us know in the comments section below.
Also read: How often should you wash your bra?
– With PA
