Different fabrics used in bedding require different types of care and have different washing requirements. Wash silk in a hot wash and spin, for example, will not do your silk sheets a lot of good.

Luckily for us the manufacturers provide us with the correct instructions for washing your sheets and other bedding right there on the bedding. Always look for a label that tells you the fabric type and how to wash it. It is better to write these instructions down and keep them in the laundry for quick reference. If you have only one type of bedding in the house you'll probably remember it but it you have a few different types of sheets made from different types of fabrics then you may well find that you need to refer to the instructions again sometimes.

And when you come to refer to the instructions on the label you can sometimes find that the label has faded and you cannot read them, so write them down.

Basically there are a few tips that you should follow to get it right. You really don't need to wash in really hot water. Use cool or lukewarm water. It is rare that the sheets are really dirty. And don't use bleach, it harms the fabric.

Use a gently cycle and don't overdo the detergent, sheets don't need a lot of washing.

If you're using a dryer then don't dry your sheets too long. If you do you'll create wrinkles, and if you've done that you can deal with the wrinkles by throwing a damp cloth into the dryer to reintroduce some moisture. Dry sheets till just dry and no more.

Then hand fold your sheets as they come out of the dryer.

A big question is whether or not you should try to wash your comforter yourself. Generally it isn't advisable, most washing machines are too small and won't do a good job, and you'll be disappointed with the result. It also depends on the type of fill fabric in the comforter, read the washing instructions very carefully, do it wrong and damage the comforter and you'll be disappointed. It is always safer to take it to the laundromat, especially if you have a down filled comforter on your bed. Remember that you don't need to wash your comforter nearly as often as you need to wash your general bedding, especially if you have it in a cover.

The bottom line is that all bedding comes with instructions on the proper care and washing requirements for that type of sheets. Read the instructions and follow them to the letter and you shouldn't go wrong.