When it comes to laundry, some of the trickiest items to wash are the ones we use every day — bedsheets, towels, and blankets. They’re bulky, heavy when wet, and require the right washing method to stay soft, clean, and long-lasting.
If you live in New York City, you probably know the struggle: small washing machines, limited space, and not enough time. That’s why we’ve put together this simple guide on how to wash bedsheets, towels, and blankets properly — and how Clean Avenue Laundry can make your life a whole lot easier.
How Often Should You Wash Them?
Bedsheets – Every 1–2 weeks. Even if they look clean, sweat, skin oils, and dust mites can build up quickly.
Towels – Every 3–4 uses. Towels trap moisture and can harbor bacteria and odor if not washed regularly.
Blankets – Every 2–3 months, or more often if used daily. Heavier blankets can accumulate dust and sweat without you noticing.
Keeping a regular washing schedule helps prevent odor and keeps fabrics fresh and hygienic.
How to Wash Bedsheets Properly
- Sort by color and fabric type. Wash whites separately from colors to avoid discoloration.
- Use gentle detergent. A mild detergent keeps your sheets soft and prevents fabric damage.
- Avoid overloading the washer. Sheets need enough room to move around for a thorough clean.
- Use warm water. Hot water can damage fibers over time, especially on delicate materials like cotton sateen.
- Dry completely. Remove sheets promptly after drying to prevent wrinkles and mildew.
🧺 Pro tip: For silk or high-thread-count sheets, consider professional cleaning for better results.
According to the Sleep Foundation, washing your sheets at least once per week helps maintain freshness, reduce allergens, and promote better sleep quality.
🧖♀️ How to Wash Towels
Towels need special care to stay fluffy and absorbent:
- Don’t use too much fabric softener. It can coat the fibers, reducing absorbency.
- Wash in warm water. It helps remove oil and buildup without damaging the fabric.
- Add vinegar occasionally. A half cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle removes detergent residue and odors.
- Dry completely. Damp towels can develop a musty smell, so make sure they’re fully dry before folding.
🧺 Quick fix: If your towels start to smell even after washing, try a “deep clean” with vinegar and baking soda — no detergent needed.
How to Wash Blankets
Blankets come in different materials, so always check the care label first.
- Machine-washable blankets: Use cold or warm water and a gentle cycle. Avoid bleach or fabric softener.
- Heavy or oversized blankets: These may not fit in a regular washer — best to bring them to a professional laundry service.
- Dry completely. Use low heat or air dry. Damp spots can lead to mildew or odor.
🧺 Pro tip: For weighted blankets, check the label — some covers can be machine-washed separately, but the inner blanket might need professional care.
Washing Tips for Allergy Prevention
If you or anyone in your household suffers from allergies or sensitive skin, proper washing can make a big difference. Dust mites and allergens tend to accumulate on bedsheets, blankets, and towels over time — especially in humid environments.
To help reduce these triggers:
- Wash your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week.
- Use hot water (130°F or 54°C) to kill dust mites and bacteria effectively.
- Dry items completely before storing to prevent mold and mildew.
- Consider using a hypoallergenic detergent for extra protection.
According to the Mayo Clinic, washing your bedding in water at 130°F (54°C) or higher is an effective way to eliminate dust mites and common allergens that may cause sneezing or irritation.
Let Clean Avenue Handle the Heavy Loads
Washing large items like sheets, towels, and blankets can be time-consuming — especially in NYC apartments with limited washer space. That’s where Clean Avenue Laundry comes in.
We offer pickup and delivery laundry service across New York City, so you can enjoy fresh, professionally cleaned laundry without lifting a finger. Whether it’s your weekly wash or bulky bedding, we’ll handle it with care and return it neatly folded and ready to use.
✨ Schedule your next pickup today at CleanAvenueNYC.com and let us take care of the heavy loads for you.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your bedsheets, towels, and blankets clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right washing methods — or a little help from Clean Avenue — you can enjoy soft, fresh, and hygienic fabrics every time.
Let Clean Avenue handle the Heavy loads 🖤
We offer pickup and delivery laundry service across New York City, so you can enjoy fresh, professionally cleaned laundry without lifting a finger.