Your fabrics trap dust, allergens, and odors—when was the last time you deep cleaned them? Unlike hard surfaces, fabrics require extra care to stay fresh. A seasonal deep clean keeps your home feeling lighter, fresher, and allergy-free. Here’s how to do it right.
1. How Often Should You Wash?
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Sheets & Pillowcases: Every 1 week to remove sweat, skin cells, and dust mites.
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Duvet Covers: Once a month if you use a top sheet. Once a week if you don’t use a top sheet.
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Pillows: Every 3-6 months (use a gentle cycle and dry with wool dryer balls to fluff them up). Or per the manufacturer's direction.
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Mattress & Pillow Covers: Every 1-2 months to prevent dust mite buildup.
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Woolen Blankets: Once a year or more often if you have pets on the bed or they get soiled.
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Curtains & Drapes: Every 3-6 months, more frequently if you have pets or live in a city.
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Sofa Covers: Every 6 months or spot clean as needed.
- Shower Curtains: Every month is ideal to prevent mold and discoloration.
2. Best Methods for Washing Linens
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Cold Water Only – Hot water can weaken fabric fibers over time. And if your linens are very stained, soak in oxygen bleach before washing.
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Mild, Non-Toxic Detergent – Avoid synthetic fragrances and optical brighteners.
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White Vinegar Rinse – Softens fabrics naturally and helps remove detergent buildup.
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Low Heat or Air Drying – Prolongs the life of linens and prevents shrinkage.
3. How to Refresh Upholstery & Mattresses
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Vacuum Regularly – Use an upholstery attachment to remove dust, pet dander, and crumbs.
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Spot Clean Stains – Always follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions. For furniture that can be spot-cleaned, mix a small amount of dish soap with water and blot gently. Dry with a fan or plenty of circulating air.
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Deodorize Naturally – Sprinkle baking soda over upholstery, let it sit for 15 minutes, then vacuum. Pro tip: add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a jar of baking soda and allow to absorb before using as a deodorizer.
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Rotate & Air Out Cushions – Flip cushions and pillows to prevent uneven wear.
4. How to Clean Window Treatments
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Machine Washable Curtains: Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners. Air dry to avoid shrinking. Pro tip: keep curtains fresh and wrinkle-free with a regular spritz of linen water.
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Non-Washable Drapes: Dust them with a vacuum attachment or a lint roller. Spray with linen water to refresh.
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Blinds & Shades: Wipe slats with a soft rag and soapy water. For fabric shades, use a vacuum brush.
5. The Power of Sunlight
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Kills Bacteria & Dust Mites Naturally – Lay pillows, cushions, and blankets in direct sunlight to freshen them up.
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Eliminates Odors – Sunlight naturally deodorizes fabrics, a much better method than toxic deodorant sprays.
6. Storage Tips to Keep Fabrics Fresh
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Store Linens in a Cool, Dry Place – Avoid plastic bins, which can trap moisture. Use breathable cotton bags instead.
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Add Natural Fresheners – Place herb or lavender sachets or cedar balls in linen closets to keep items smelling fresh.
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Rotate Seasonally – Store heavier bedding in summer and swap it out in fall to prevent dust buildup.
A little extra attention to your fabrics will leave your home feeling lighter, fresher, and truly clean for spring.