Putting crisp new sheets on your bed is one of life's simple pleasures, as they make that first sleep feel clean and fresh.
But one cleaning expert has explained why new bedding should never be used right out of the packaging, as it is "absolutely necessary" they are washed first - even if they look spotless.
According to Christian Alexander, CEO of mattress and bedding company Nest Bedding, sheets, pillowcases and quilt covers can gather dirt dust, and chemical residue. He said: "This way, you remove the dust and dirt they may have accumulated while in the factory or on the shelf at the store."
As reported by the Mirror, Christian highlighted that giving bedding a wash is especially important for those with sensitive skin. Residual chemicals used during the manufacturing process may spur reaction or skin irritation.
In addition, washing bedding can actually make it feel softer than right out of the packaging, so skipping the process could mean you're sleeping on scratchy and stiff sheets.
But what causes this coarse feeling in bedding? An expert from laundry guide In The Wash said it's down to how bed clothes are treated to make them more presentable "One culprit of this is a starch known as 'sizing'," they explained.
"This starch is used to keep sheets smooth in their packaging to maintain that attractive, fresh look. This starch is what can make some bed sheets feel scratchy when they are first taken out of the packet."
This same laundry expert added that cleaning new bed sheets also helps you to check for any potential design defects, for example, small tears or stitching snags which may only become apparent after a good wash.
Advising people how to get the best results from washing their bedding, the expert continued: "To get the most out of your new sheets and remove that stiff feeling, give them a thorough wash by adding a cup of baking soda to the machine.
"When washed with warm water, the bicarbonate of soda will loosen up the sheets and get rid of any smells that remained from the production process."
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