Your pyjamas might be a bacteria trap: Here’s how often to wash them
How often should you wash pyjamas to avoid harming your skin (photo: Freepik)
Pyjamas are the most harmless item in your wardrobe. But in reality, they quietly collect everything every day — from sweat to microscopic skin particles. How often you should wash them to reduce harm to your skin — read below, according to Real Simple.
How long can you wear pyjamas?
Pyjamas should be washed weekly. It is recommended to wash them regularly in hot soapy water at 60°C or lower, as indicated on the label.
“Ideally, you should switch to fresh pajamas every three days for normal skin,” says dermatologist and MD Karl Thornfeldt.
Even if they look clean, skin secretions and microbes accumulate on the fabric. Regular changes help reduce the risk of skin irritation and unpleasant odor.
Factors to consider
How much you sweat
In summer, pyjamas should be washed more often, as people tend to sweat more. You should also consider washing them more frequently if you take morning showers, since sweat and oils that build up during the day remain on the skin when you go to bed.
If you wear pyjamas during the day
Allergenic particles — dust mites, pollen, pests, pet dander, and mold — can trigger allergy symptoms and even asthma.
Wearing pyjamas during the day and then going to bed can transfer allergens from other surfaces onto bed sheets.
Skin conditions
If you have sensitive skin or are prone to acne, eczema, or other skin conditions, it is better to wash more frequently. The number of bacteria on pyjamas can be very high, so more frequent washing is recommended.
For very sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free laundry detergent, use a double rinse cycle, and consider silk pyjamas.
Pyjama material
Natural fabrics such as cotton and silk are better choices if you want to wear pyjamas longer between washes. Cotton is preferable because some chemicals from polyester may penetrate the skin.
Silk helps wick away sweat more effectively. If your favorite pyjamas are made of polyester, expect to wash them more often.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
