How to remove stains from bed sheets: Our complete guide

Nothing makes a bed feel as luxurious as quality linen, and nothing is more frustrating than noticing a stain on your bedspread. Whether it's a few drops of your morning coffee, makeup residue, sweat, or other fluids, learning how to remove stains from bed sheets is one of the most important things you can do to keep on top of the situation. 

The most important factor in removing stains from bed sheets is to apply a light touch. Treat all spills and stains gently to preserve them. We've kept things simple with our six steps to follow that can keep your Hampton & Astley sheets at their best for many years to come.

How to remove stains from bed sheets at a glance 

Step-by-step guide on how to remove stains from bed sheets 

The faster you act, the better the results of removing stains from bed sheets will be. An immediate rinse followed by a thorough soak will yield the best possible results, but this will depend on what's been spilt on it in the first place. Now, you should aim to wash your bedding once a week, but for those stubborn stains, this is what to do. 

Step 1: Flush the stain

1. Rinse the sheet under cold water and check for any stains or marks 

2. Hold the fabric under the tap from the underside of the stain, which forces the spill out of the fibres instead of pushing it deeper into the weave. Don't use hot water, as this can set stains. 

Step 2: Spot treat the stain gently 

1. Gently rub a mild detergent into the stain on the sheet 

2. Work through the fabric with your fingers or a brush 

3. Don't aggressively scrub, as this can damage the fibres 

Step 3: Soak the stain 

1. Put the stained sheet into a sink or the bath and submerge it for at least 30 minutes 

2. Let the fabric soak for this time, which will let the cleaning agents break down the stain 

Step 4: Wash the stained sheet in the washing machine 

1. Put the stained sheet into the washing machine on its own load 

2. Avoid washing it with other laundry items, as this can cause friction in the machine 

3. Go for a gentle and cool wash cycle paired with a mild laundry detergent 
   

Step 5: Check the sheet before hanging it up 

1. Inspect the previously stained area to see if it's been effectively removed 

2. If any traces remain, repeat the spot treatment until it's been fully lifted 

3. Do not tumble dry or use excessive heat, as this can set the stains even after soaking 

Step 6: Dry on the line 

1. Hang the sheet out properly on a washing line on a warm, dry day 

2. This will prevent shrinkage and friction-based damage 

3. The sheet will now be ready to go back on the bed or into storage 

What things can stain a sheet? 

The most common liquids that can stain bed sheets include body oils, coffee, tea, makeup, creams, and blood. Depending on the fluid, you may need to slightly tweak your approach. Whatever happens, you should never use harsh chemicals, such as bleach, to remove stains, as this can weaken the fibres and turn white sheets yellow. Similarly, you should also avoid the use of fabric softeners, as these conditioners may trap certain stains in the fibres, making them harder to get out with successive washes. 

Be mindful of the temperature when cleaning stains from a bed sheet 

It's important to always wash a bed sheet on a cool setting, or to soak it in cold water when attempting to lift stains. This is because warm and higher temperatures can set proteins and oil-based stains into the fabric for good. Excessive heat can also damage delicate fabrics, which can reduce the lifespan of your prized flat sheet or fitted sheet. Modern laundry detergents now work in shorter periods of time in cooler temperatures, which can also save you money on your energy bills, without the worry of causing harm to your different bedding. 

How to remove stains from bed sheets FAQs

Can old stains still be removed? 

Yes, you can lift old or set-in stains from bed sheets, but they can be much harder to remove. Time and exposure to the air are what cause them to set in, but you can apply the same steps to purge the old stains: rinse, treat, soak, and dry until they are gone. 

What causes orange stains on bed sheets? 

Yellow and orange stains on bed sheets are most commonly the result of a chemical reaction from bleach or certain personal care products, like acne treatments and sun cream. 

What stains are the hardest to remove? 

The toughest stains to remove from bed sheets are generally believed to be sweat stains, as they are a mixture of proteins and lipids, which could also be mixed with antiperspirant chemicals from deodorant.