How many years should you keep bed sheets?

October 03, 2023 5 min read

Purchasing a quality set of bed sheets is a smart investment not just in your home, but also in your quality of life. Choosing a set of sheets with good longevity helps you to get the most from your money and your time. However, every bed sheets lifespan is limited to some degree. On average, high quality sheets should last around two years or 100 washes, but this really depends on several different considerations. That’s why it’s so important to know when it’s time to replace them. In our guide, we’ll discuss the different factors that can affect the lifespan of your sheets, signs it’s time to replace your sheets, how to extend your bed sheets lifespan and more.

In This Article

Factors Affecting Sheet Lifespan
Signs It's Time to Replace Sheets
Average Lifespan of Different Sheet Materials
Extending the Lifespan of Sheets
Environmental Considerations
Final Thoughts on how many years should you keep bed sheets?

Factors Affecting Sheet Lifespan

Several factors contribute to the lifespan of bed sheets and how long they can be kept and used in your home. Here are some of the most important factors that may impact the longevity of your favorite set of sheets.

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Quality of materials: Of all the factors affecting your sheets’ lifespan, the quality of materials is the most important. Choose percale sheets made of a tight knit cotton fabric or opt for a set of nice linen sheets for the longest possible life. Sheets with a high thread count are more durable than those with a lower thread count, too.
Frequency of use: If you’re continually using the same sheet set night after night, they’re going to wear out faster. For example, sheets in a guest room will obviously last much longer than the ones you’re sleeping on every evening. Consider getting multiple sets of sheets so you have a backup set. That way, you can alternate between washing and drying them, so they last a bit longer.
Care and maintenance: Taking proper care of your sheets can also impact their lifespan. Always follow the care instructions, and make sure you’re washing sheets without other laundry since it could contribute to premature wear and tear. Use cold water and follow a proper maintenance routine to keep them fresh and clean.
Environmental conditions: Even your environment can affect your sheets’ lifespan. Dust mites, dead skin cells, and even body oils can affect the fabric. If you live in a warm climate, try to keep your bedroom cool so you don’t sweat as much at night. Choose moisture wicking materials that draw sweat away from your body to help you stay comfortable and keep your sheets in good condition for longer.

Signs It's Time to Replace Sheets

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There are a few common indicators that suggest your sheets should be replaced, such as:

Visible wear and tear: Thinning patches of fabric or rips and holes are visible signs that it’s time to replace sheets. If you notice yellowing on your sheets that won’t come out, it’s also a sign to toss them and replace them with some new sheets.
Fading or discoloration: Discolored sheets aren’t just unattractive, it’s also a sign that you need to purchase a new set. A slight bit of fading is normal, but if the sheets are completely discolored after frequent washing and drying, you may need to start shopping for a new set.
Loss of elasticity: Fitted sheets are designed to fit snugly around your mattress. If you’re noticing that your fitted sheet is losing elasticity, it’s probably time for a replacement. Ill-fitting sheets aren’t just annoying – they can also interfere with your quality of sleep overall.
Pilling or roughness: Pilling is a common sign of your sheet’s quality. This problem occurs as a result of friction, and it tends to happen more often with bedding made of low-quality materials. If you notice that your sheets are starting to feel rough and you see tiny balls that resemble lint, your sheets are pilling and you should consider getting new bed sheets as soon as possible.

Average Lifespan of Different Sheet Materials

Each type of sheet material has a different average lifespan. Here are some of the most common types of materials used for sheets, and how you can extend their life span to help ensure longevity.

Cotton: This breathable, lightweight material is one of the most common options for sheets. Sateen sheets and percale sheets are two distinct weave patterns used for cotton fabrics. Look for quality organic cotton sheets with higher thread count to ensure that they last longer, which is typically between two to three years for percale and sateen sheets.
Linen: This all-natural material isn’t just breathable and comfortable with an airy feel, but also luxurious. Linen sheets can last up to five years when you wash and dry them correctly and tend to last longer than almost all other materials.
Microfiber: If you want a more affordable sheets set, microfiber is a good choice. However, this material isn’t as breathable or durable as some other options. If cared for properly, your microfiber sheets may last around two or three years.

Extending the Lifespan of Sheets

Fortunately, there are things you can do to prolong the life of your sheets, including:

Proper laundering techniques: Practice proper laundering techniques, like using gentle detergent and wash your bedding regularly. Every other week is a good rule of thumb, and try to avoid using hot water. Don’t dry your sheets on the high heat setting to help avoid shrinkage and fading. You can also try line drying most sheets and other bed linens, which will also save you money on your monthly energy bill.
Using fabric softeners and protectors: Dryer sheets and liquid fabric softeners can cause premature wear to your sheets, so it’s best to avoid them. Use mattress protectors on your bed to help prevent excess friction while you sleep, which may help to reduce pilling.
Rotating sheet sets: Consider purchasing at least two or three bed sheet sets, so you can rotate them when it’s time to wash them. This will prolong the life of your sheets and make maintenance much easier, too.
Store sheets correctly: When your sheets are stored properly, they’ll last much longer. Always keep spare sheet sets stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, like a bedroom or linen closet.

Environmental Considerations

Taking proper care of your sheets won’t just save you money, but it will also have a positive impact on the environment. Making sustainable choices helps to reduce trash in local landfills, and choosing organic, natural bedding is an eco-friendly way to enjoy high quality materials with a low carbon footprint. The higher the quality of your bedding, the longer it should last, too. Investing in eco-friendly sheets and other bedding made of natural fabric like organic cotton and linen will ensure you enjoy a much more luxurious feel, better-quality sleep, and a smart long-term investment.

Final Thoughts on how many years should you keep bed sheets?

Keep the tips from our guide in mind to help you determine how many years you should hold onto your bed sheets. With the right care like proper washing and drying techniques and choosing quality materials, you’ll be able to enjoy your sheets for years to come. Assess the condition of your sheets to help you make an informed decision about when it’s time for a replacement. Explore our bedding collections to discover ultra soft, quality options made of safe, eco-friendly materials that will enhance your life and save you money.