Keeping baby bedding fresh and clean is just as important as washing baby clothes. After all, this is where little ones spend most of their time sleeping, playing, and cuddling.

But baby bedding and blankets aren’t like regular laundry. Their fabrics are softer, more delicate, and closer to a baby’s sensitive skin, which means extra care is needed when washing them.

Here are eight simple but essential things every parent should know to keep baby bedding clean and safe, or skip the hassle altogether and let a professional laundry service like Tumble Laundry handle it with expert, baby-safe care.

‍

1. Always Wash Before First Use

Even brand-new bedding can carry traces of dust, dyes, or residues from the manufacturing and packaging process. Giving every new sheet, pillowcase, or blanket a gentle wash before your baby uses it ensures that any irritants are removed.

‍

2. Separate Baby Laundry from the Rest

It’s tempting to toss all laundry in together to save time, but adult clothes often carry dirt, oils, and detergent residues that aren’t baby-friendly. Washing baby bedding and clothes separately minimises exposure to potential irritants.

If there’s not enough for a full load, consider using a laundry bag or a smaller cycle to save water and energy.

Read also: The Best Way to Sort Laundry (and Why It Matters)

‍

3. Choose the Right Washing Method

When it comes to baby bedding, the best method depends on the fabric and care label instructions.

• Machine wash: Most cotton or bamboo sheets can go in the washer. Use a gentle or delicate cycle with cold or warm water (never hot) to prevent shrinking.

• Hand wash: For delicate materials like muslin or lace-trimmed blankets, hand washing is safest. Soak the bedding in cool water with a small amount of gentle detergent, swish it around, and rinse thoroughly.

Always check the care label before washing. Some items (like waterproof mattress covers) may have special washing instructions or temperature limits to maintain their function.

‍

4. Use a Mild, Baby-Safe Detergent

Baby bedding doesn’t need strong cleaning agents. Instead, go for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic detergent specifically made for babies or sensitive skin.

These detergents clean effectively while avoiding harsh chemicals, brighteners, or strong scents that could irritate skin.

Skip the fabric softener too as it can leave residues that cause discomfort or allergic reactions.

‍

5. Avoid Bleach and Harsh Cleaners

It can be tempting to reach for bleach when stains don’t budge, but even mild bleach can damage delicate fabrics and trigger skin irritation. The same goes for strong stain removers.

For stubborn stains, try natural alternatives:

• Add baking soda to the wash to neutralise odours.

• Use white vinegar in the rinse cycle as a natural softener and residue remover.

• For milk or spit-up stains, a quick pre-soak in cool water before washing usually helps lift them out.

Read also: The Complete Guide to Stain Removal

‍

6. Dry Thoroughly but Gently

Damp bedding can lead to mildew or musty odours, so make sure everything is completely dry before using or storing it. Here are two safe ways to dry baby bedding:

• Air dry: The best method for most baby bedding. Hang sheets or blankets in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.

• Tumble dry: If the care label allows, use the lowest heat setting and remove items while slightly damp to finish air drying.

‍

7. Wash Bedding Frequently

Baby bedding gets messy, from drool and milk spills to diaper leaks, so it needs regular washing to stay clean and hygienic. Here’s a simple routine to follow:

• Crib sheets: Wash every 3–4 days (or immediately after a spill).

• Blankets and swaddles: Wash weekly, or more often if soiled.

• Mattress covers or protectors: Wash every two weeks, or when stained.

Regular washing keeps allergens, dust mites, and bacteria away, giving babies a cleaner, more comfortable sleep space.

‍

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Get Professional Help

Sometimes, baby bedding requires more than a gentle home wash, especially when dealing with tough stains, lingering odours, or high-quality fabrics that need extra care from a professional laundry service or dry cleaner.

That’s where Tumble Laundry comes in. Our team of laundry experts in Singapore uses professional-grade machines, baby-safe detergents, and precise temperature control to clean bedding and blankets thoroughly without damaging their softness.

For busy families, letting Tumble handle the tough loads means more time for what really matters.

‍

Final Thoughts

Keeping baby bedding and blankets clean doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about being gentle, consistent, and mindful of what touches a baby’s skin.

But when laundry starts piling up or time just isn’t on your side, Tumble can take care of it with professional, baby-safe cleaning methods that keep every blanket soft and fresh.

Book a laundry service at Tumble today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your little one’s bedding is in expert hands.