Cheat sheet On When To Replace & Wash Your Bedding

Last updated: May 2025

Quick Overview

Wondering when to replace your quilt, pillows, or mattress topper? This guide gives you a room-by-room cheat sheet on how often to wash, replace, and care for your bedding from pillows and protectors to valances and mattresses. Backed by expert advice, real-life habits, and practical recommendations, this is your go-to guide to sleeping cleaner, longer, and better.

Ever wake up with a sore neck and realise your pillow is older than your microwave? Or notice your sheets don’t feel as fresh no matter how often you wash them? You’re not alone.

Most of us hang onto bedding way past its use-by date, partly because we’re not sure when to replace it, and partly because we just forget.

But here’s the truth: clean, well-maintained bedding = better sleep, fewer allergens, and a healthier home.

Bedding Replacement & Washing Cheat Sheet

Item	Wash Frequency	Replace Every
Pillows	Every 4-6 Months	2-3 Years (depending on type)
Pillow Protector	Fortnightly	1-2 Years
Pillowcases	Weekly (More in Summer or in hot sleeper)	2-3 Years
Sheets	Weekly (More in Summer or in hot sleeper)	2-4 Years
Mattress Protectors	Fortnightly	2-3 Years
Mattress Toppers	Seasonaly	2-5 Years
Comforters/Blankets	4-6 times per year	2-4 Years
Quilts	4-6 times per year	2-10 Years
Quilt Covers	1-2 Per month	2-5 Years
Valances	1-2 times per Year	As Needed
Mattresses	Clean as needed	7-10 Yesars

 

Pillows

Your pillow is probably doing more than cradling your head—it’s likely holding onto sweat, skin cells, oils, and dust mites.

• Wash: Every 4–6 months (or more often without a protector)

• Replace: Every 2–3 years (microfibre pillows break down faster)

 Need a new one? Explore our allergy-friendly, machine-washable pillows.

Pillow Protectors

They do the dirty work so your pillow doesn’t have to but they still need love too.

• Wash: Every season

• Replace: Every 1–2 years

Tip: If it smells or looks yellowed even after washing it’s time.

Pillowcases

Think of them as your pillow’s T-shirt. Would you wear the same one for a month?

• Wash: Weekly (more in summer or if you have oily skin)

• Replace: Every 2–3 years (sooner if fabric thins or fades)

Sheets

Fresh sheets aren’t just a luxury—they’re essential. Dirt, sweat, and skin build up faster than you think.

• Wash: Weekly

• Replace: Every 2–5 years, depending on quality and use

Pro Tip: Rotate between 2–3 sheet sets to extend their lifespan.

Mattress Protectors

A clean mattress starts with a good protector.

• Wash: Monthly or more often if sweating

• Replace: Every 2–3 years

 Shop our waterproof and breathable mattress protectors here.

Mattress Toppers

They boost comfort—but only if they’re clean and supportive.

• Wash: Four times per year (check label first)

• Replace: Every 3–5 years depending on fill, material, and usage

Look for signs like sagging, flattening, or less support.

The Sienna Living 1500GSM Hotel Topper is designed to last longer, with easy care in mind.

Quilts, Blankets & Comforters

These items are bulkier, but that’s no excuse to skip the wash.

• Quilts: Wash every 3–4 months

• Replace: Every 5–10 years (microfibre lasts 5, down can last 10+)

• Blankets & Comforters: Wash every 2–3 months

• Replace: Every 2–5 years

 Prefer not to deal with covers at all? Try our Snuggle Fleece Comforter—no doona cover, just warmth.

Quilt Covers

Even with a flat sheet, your quilt cover collects sweat and dust.

• Wash: Every 2–4 weeks

• Replace: Every 2–5 years

Check stitching and colour—fading or tears mean it’s time.

Valances

Out of sight, but not out of wash.

• Wash: 1–2 times per year

• Replace: As needed (watch for dust or staining)

Why Replacing Bedding Matters

• Minimises exposure to allergens, bacteria, and dust mites

• Improves sleep hygiene and comfort

• Extends the lifespan of your bed and bedding

• Supports better sleep quality and skin health

🛒 Ready to refresh your bed? Explore our bedding collection designed for long life, easy care, and every sleep style.