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The oils from your skin, makeup, the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays, and the ravages of time can all take a toll on your pillowcases. While regular washing will help them stay fresh for longer, there will come a time when you need to say goodbye to your pillowcases and replace them. Look for the following signs that you should invest in some brand new linens.
They Have Stubborn Stains
Martha Stewart might offer tips for removing every stain, but the truth is that some stains will never come out. In fact, according to dry cleaners, most stains will become permanent in time if they’re left untreated.
When a substance like makeup or oils from your body initially comes into contact with your pillow, it sits on the material’s surface. However, in time, this substance will seep into the material and permeate its fibers. During this process, the foreign substance will react with the material’s dye, changing your pillowcase’s color. Most dark fabrics will become lighter, while light pillowcases may develop dark parts. Even if you work hard to treat the stain, the damage it’s caused will remain.
While these stains aren’t harmful, they are unsightly. If you want a stain-free pillowcase, replacing it is your only choice.
Their Hems Are Fraying
Dermatologists recommend washing your pillowcase and other bedding at least once every week. However, you may need to wash your pillowcase more often if you’re prone to acne breakouts or allergies. All that washing is good for your skin and health, but it can take a toll on your pillowcase. Washing impacts the fibers of your pillowcase, and over time even high-quality materials will start to break down.
The hems are one of the first areas that are likely to show this sign of wear. Keep an eye on the hems of your pillowcases, and if you see them fraying start shopping for new ones.
The Material Has Faded
Like those stubborn stains, faded pillowcases can also impact the aesthetics of your bedroom. The sun’s ultraviolet rays break down the chemical bonds in fabric dyes, making the colors fade away. You might notice your pillowcases fading if you dry them naturally on a clothesline or if your bed sits near an open window. If you miss vibrantly colored pillowcases, you’ll need to replace your faded ones.
Which Pillowcase Should You Choose?
It’s tempting to just replace your pillowcase with the same type that you had before. However, not all fabrics are created equally, and there’s a strong case for trying something new like bamboo.
Bamboo pillowcases are 3 degrees cooler than cotton ones, which should help you get a better night’s sleep. Scientists treating insomnia found that sufferers that slept with a special cooling cap fell asleep faster and had more restful nights. The researchers believed this occurred because the caps lowered the brain’s temperature, slowing its activity and aiding rest. Whether you’re an insomniac or not, it stands to reason that a cooler bamboo pillowcase could also improve your sleep quality.
Bamboo also has moisture-wicking properties, so you’ll feel fresh throughout the night. Its natural odor-and-allergy-prevention capabilities will also help you breathe easier while you rest. Bamboo’s round fibers also make it very soft, like cashmere. And bamboo is also naturally UV-resistant, which makes it less likely to fade and show wear than other materials. With these great benefits, when you’re replacing pillowcases, it makes sense to consider buying bamboo.
So spare a thought for your pillowcases. Just like mattresses, pillows, sheets, and duvets, they won’t last forever. Look out for these signs to know when it’s time to replace yours.
Resources:
http://www.bustle.com/articles/24800-20-skincare-mistakes-that-are-damaging-your-face
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/health/news/8568966/Keep-a-cool-head-to-avoid-sleeplessness.html
http://www.cariloha.com/bed-bath/bedding/pillowcases/resort-bamboo-pillow-case-set-caribbean-mint.html
http://thegreenlivingcenter.com/node/137
http://www.marthastewart.com/270618/bedding-care-101
http://blog.1-800-dryclean.com/2009/11/01/why-cant-the-dry-cleaner-remove-every-stain/
http://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/colors.html
http://www.modswad.com/static.php?page=facts_about_bamboo