Photo by: Michael Gaida via Pixabay

Most of us are guilty of not changing bedsheets often enough, because we do not know how often should we change one in the first place. To know about the correct frequency of changing linens and others that we use or wear on a regular basis, here are some tips to remember:

1. Pajamas

A recent survey revealed that the average man wears the same pajamas for 13 nights, and women wear theirs for 17 nights, before changing into a new one. Professor Sally Bloomfield, hygiene and infectious disease prevention consultant, said that “pajamas are worn right next to the skin – and we shed skin cells filled with microorganisms at a vast rate.” Thus, nighttime outfits such as pajamas should be changed at least once a week.

2. Underwear

Dr. Lisa Ackerley, visiting professor of environmental health at the University of Salford, said underwear should be changed every day and replaced yearly -- no exception. Wearing unclean underwear often cause health problems including urinary tract infection. However, it was revealed in a survey that more than a quarter of men and 7 percent of women wear underwear for two days before changing. Yikes.
 

3. Toothbrushes

Experts recommend changing toothbrushes every three months, and they also advise not to share your toothbrush with anyone. This is because the average toothbrush contains around 10 million germs that may carry viruses such as Hepatitis C. 

4. Dishcloths

According to a study, nine out of 10 UK dishcloths tested were heavily contaminated with bacteria, including 4 billion living germs and E.coli. Thus, dishcloths should be thoroughly cleaned and air-dried after every use and replaced monthly, and avoid draping them over taps or leaving them in sinks.

5. Bathroom towels

Philip Tierno, a New York-based microbiologist, suggests that bathroom towels should be washed after every three uses. Bath towels absorb dead skin cells and natural bacteria from our bodies, and bacteria thrive in warm and damp conditions. Towels should also not be shared to prevent the spread of skin infections.

6. Bedsheets

Bedsheets can harvest dead skin cells and bodily excretions such as sweat, similar to towels, clothes, and underwear. Beddings can also become home to as much as 10 million dust mites. Because of this, experts recommend changing bedsheets every week. Aside from that, upon waking up, it is recommended to open up the bedroom windows and pull back the duvet to let moisture and humidity out.

7. Duvets and pillows

Duvets should be washed every few months, or at least twice a year. These should also be replaced every five years. On the other hand, pillows should be replaced every two to three years.