Laundry expert warns against common washing mistake that shrinks bedsheets

The cleaning guru has revealed a mistake that many people make while washing their bedsheets without realising – and it could result in having to fork out for new bedding

Washing your bedding is an arduous task, but there’s nothing quite as satisfying as sinking into fresh sheets after a long day – particularly after you’ve wrestled with your duvet and cover to make the bed. As sleep experts and cleaning gurus alike suggest that we should be washing our bedsheets once a week – or once every fortnight at a push – it’s an unavoidable household chore that needs tackling.

Those who do clean their sheets regularly will be all too familiar with the struggles of getting bedding to dry naturally, particularly in the colder months – and during a cost of living crisis where many of us are using our central heating sparsely.

While clothes airers are brilliant for drying clothing and smaller items, larger pieces like bedsheets can take a long time to dry as there’s more surface area to tackle.

Many homeowners and renters are also concerned about condensation and mould in their homes, as skyrocketing energy bills mean people are using their central heating less often, which can result in water clinging to the air, walls, and windowsills.

If you do choose to use the tumble dryer to dry your bedsheets in, one cleaning expert has a word of warning, as there’s a common mistake that many people make in the process. Even worse, the simple error can cause your bedsheets to shrink.

Deyan Dimitrov, laundry expert and CEO of Laundryheap, told The Express that people should avoid letting their tumble dryer run for too long when drying bedsheets, as it can permanently damage the fabric.

She explained: “Whilst it’s great to put on new sheets as soon as they come out of the tumble dryer for a warm and cosy sleep, keeping them inside your tumble dryer too long, or even on top of your dryer to warm them up again, can actually shrink your bedsheets”.

“To avoid uncomfortable bed sheets getting in the way of a good sleep, dry your sheets naturally on a drying line or rack, preferably outside for an even fresher smell, for longevity and better results.”

Drying bedsheets naturally seems to be the best solution – both for our bank balances and to retain the quality of the fabric – but how do we tackle the moisture in the air that comes with it?

Fans of cleaning guru Mrs Hinch – real name Sophie Hinchliffe – have been sharing their tips for tackling condensation and one handy hack costs just £1.50.

One woman recommended the Stamp Out The Damp dehumidifier from Clean Zone – a plastic tub filled with absorbent pellets that absorbs moisture from the air in your home.

She swears by the product, which you can pick up for £1.50 from Wilko, and many others have sung its praises too – as they last a while and are an inexpensive way of tackling the problem.

Another fan of the cheap dehumidifier wrote: “These are really good even if there is only a little bit of dampness and not too expensive”.

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