Egyptian cotton is considered to be one of the best materials for bed linens because of its softness, durability, and luxurious feel. However, caring for Egyptian cotton bed linens can be a bit of a challenge. Proper care is necessary to maintain the softness and quality of the fabric. If you have checked our previous article about the history of Egyptian Cotton sheets, you will know everything you need to know about Egyptian Cotton but one thing you will need to know is how to take care of it so you can enjoy the full package.
Have you enjoyed a peaceful night’s rest cocooned in sumptuous goose feather-down duvets? Getting cool Egyptian cotton sheets, which offer a cooling effect and exquisite softness against your skin, is a perfect sheet to help regulate your temperature. Nonetheless, to maintain their pristine condition, what is the proper way to launder them?
For heavily stained Egyptian cotton sheets or duvets, pre-treat them with a blend of baking soda and vinegar or opt for a specialized stain remover for minor blemishes. It’s best to wash them on a cool and gentle 40-degree cycle. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to care for your Egyptian cotton bed linens.
Softening
If your Egyptian cotton sheets feel stiff when you first open them, there’s no need to worry as they will become softer after a few washes. To speed up the softening process, you can even wash them before using them for the first time. However, it’s a common practice to wash new sheets before using them for the first time. This not only helps to remove any manufacturing residues but also makes the sheets softer and more comfortable. As for Egyptian cotton sheets, they are known for their high quality and softness, but they may feel stiff at first. Washing them a few times will help to break them in and make them feel more luxurious.
Pre-Treat Your Sheets
Although Egyptian cotton sheets are renowned for their durability and quality, even the highest-priced bedding can become stained. In case you spot any minor blemishes on your sheets, gently dab them with a mixture of warm water and a small amount of detergent before washing. For more prominent stains, consider using a stain remover spray, but be cautious to eliminate any excess moisture afterward. It’s also advisable to utilize a duvet cover, which can help reduce the need for frequent washing of your comforter, as frequent laundering can lead to the breakdown of the filling.
Washing
The first step to caring for your Egyptian cotton bed linens is washing them. Always wash your linens before you use them as this will help remove any residue from the manufacturing process and also soften the fabric. It’s important to choose a high-quality detergent for your sheets, but be careful not to overuse it, as this can leave a residue and make your sheets feel stiff or soapy. If you’re not sure, check if your washing machine has an extra rinse function, which can be helpful. Avoid using bleach or products that contain it, as this can cause yellowing of your sheets over time. For maintaining white sheets, choose products that contain oxygen or have an “oxi action” feature.
Always separate your linens by color and fabric type. Egyptian cotton bed linens should be washed separately from other fabrics, as they can pick up lint from other fabrics. Wash your linens in cold or warm water, but avoid using hot water as it can shrink the fabric. The most important rule to follow when separating your laundry is to prevent color bleeding on your Egyptian cotton sheets. To achieve this, it is advisable to wash your sheets separately or with light 100% cotton clothing, while avoiding mixing with other fabric types as it is essential to avoid overloading your washing machine to allow your sheets to have enough space to move around freely for optimal cleaning. Washing your sheets every 1-2 weeks is also recommended to prevent the accumulation of bacteria, sweat, and body oils, which can cause yellowing or a dull appearance over time.
Skip the Fabric Softener
It is common thing that people to add fabric softener to their laundry regularly, but it’s important to refrain from doing so when it comes to Egyptian cotton sheets. This is because Egyptian cotton has exceptional breathability, allowing air to pass through easily and prevent you from waking up drenched in sweat. Nevertheless, since cotton is porous, fabric softener has the potential to fill in the spaces in the yarn. This could eventually lead to your sheets becoming rigid and coarse instead of the intended soft and silky texture.
Drying
Drying is another step in caring for your Egyptian cotton bed linens. Always tumble dry your linens on a low heat setting. High heat can damage the fibers and reduce the softness of the fabric. If possible, line drying is the best option for Egyptian cotton bed linens, as it helps to preserve the fabric’s natural softness. To extend the lifespan of Egyptian cotton sheets, it’s advisable to air or line-dry them. This method not only helps preserve the quality of the fibers but also serves as a natural bleaching agent and imparts a pleasant fragrance. Additionally, it’s a cost-effective option for you if you wish to use it. In case the use of a tumble dryer is inevitable, it’s recommended to choose a low setting to prevent damage to the sheets.
Ironing
Leaving your sheets slightly damp after washing can make it easier to iron them. This is because the moisture helps to relax the fibers and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Using a medium ironing setting can help prevent damage to your sheets while still achieving a smooth finish. Ironing your Egyptian cotton sheets can indeed help create a luxurious hotel-like look and feel. Egyptian cotton is known for its high quality and durability, and proper care can help maintain its softness and luster over time. It’s worth noting that if you prefer not to iron your sheets, you can always hang them up to dry and smooth out any wrinkles by hand. However, using a fabric softener in the wash can also help keep your sheets soft and wrinkle-free.
Storage
Proper storage is also important for caring for your Egyptian cotton bed linens. Always store your linens in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the colors of the fabric and weaken the fibers. Avoid storing your linens in plastic bags or containers, as this can trap moisture and cause mildew to develop. It’s advisable to either place your sheets back on the bed right after they come out of the dryer or store them in a protective pouch. This not only safeguards the sheets from potential harm but also prevents them from accumulating dust while not in use. It’s recommended to keep the pouch in a well-ventilated, dry part of your home that is not excessively warm. The great news is that Pure Parima includes a tailor-made storage pouch with each sheet set, reducing the need for you to search for a container that suits your bedding.
In conclusion, Caring for your Egyptian cotton bed linens may require a bit of extra effort, but the results are well worth it. With proper care, your linens will retain their softness and luxurious feel for years to come. Remember to wash your linens separately, use a mild detergent, and tumble dry on a low heat setting. Proper storage and general care tips can also help you maintain the quality of your linens. With these tips, you can enjoy the soft, luxurious feel of your Egyptian cotton bed linens night after night.
