How Often You Should Wash Your Sheets, Hair and Other Things

As a guy, we probably don't wash the sheets as often as we should. I am guilty. You are, too! HA! From an article in the CNN Living section, via The Rooster, here are some guidelines to help you figure out when to wash various things in your house… and even on your own body.

Sheets: Once a week - Sheets should be washed often to remove a buildup of debris, dust, sweat and other icky things. Use hot water and a hot dryer cycle to kill all germs.

Cars: Every one to three weeks - wash it once a week if you live near a large body of water, somewhere with extreme weather conditions, drive a lot or park outside.

Dogs: As needed - Let your nose be your guide! If your pooch is smelly or feels oily to the touch, then it's time to wash. This ranges from once a month to 4 times a year.

Jeans: Every four to five wears - This is okay as long as they're not stained. Over washing can cause them to wear out prematurely.

Bras: Every 3 to 4 wears - A general rule is that you should never wear the same bra two days in a row, because elastic needs time to reshape.

Your Face: Every night (and possibly in the morning) - Cleansing every night prevents clogged pores and breakouts. If you have oily skin, wash again in the morning.

Your Hair: Every other day - Washing your hair every day strips it of natural oils, so it's best to shampoo on alternating days at most.

Window Screens: Once a year - When warm weather arrives, it's time to de-grime and let the fresh air in.

Windows: Twice a year - preferably with a squeegee.

Mattress: Every six months - Believe it or not, it’s pretty easy to do this. Vacuum the top, then wipe down with a lightly damp, soapy cloth.

Oven: Every six months - Not all ovens are self-cleaning. If yours isn't, set it up to clean while you sleep.

Pots and Pans: Three times a year

Carpet: Once a year.

Purse: Every week - Field tests have shown that purses sometimes carry traces of E. coli, most often on the bottom, which rests on germy surfaces.

Dishwasher: Every month - pour vinegar into a dishwasher-safe cup, then place the cup upright on (empty) dishwasher's top rack.

Sink and Drain: Every day - Because the kitchen sink has the second-highest concentration of microorganisms in the home, it should be cleaned daily.