Do you regularly use a sleep mask to improve your sleep? If so, don’t forget to wash it! Sleep masks come into direct contact with your skin, absorbing oil, sweat, and even makeup residue. Without regular cleaning, your sleep mask can quickly turn into a breeding ground for bacteria, potentially irritating your skin or even leading to eye infections.

Curious about how often you should wash your sleep mask and the best way to clean it? Read on for practical tips to keep your sleep mask fresh and hygienic.

How often should you wash your sleep mask?

How often you need to wash your sleep mask depends on how frequently you use it. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Daily use: Wash your sleep mask at least once a week.
  • Occasional use (a few times per week): Clean it at least once every two weeks. Even with lighter use, dirt and bacteria can build up over time.
  • Sensitive skin: If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, wash your sleep mask every two to three days. Silk sleep masks are a great option for sensitive skin, as they have antibacterial properties.

Tip: If you use a night cream, make sure it’s fully absorbed before putting on your sleep mask. This prevents residue from transferring to the fabric, which can attract bacteria. When using a daily cream, wash your sleep mask one to two times every week to keep it clean and fresh.

Why cleaning your sleep mask is importent

Your sleep mask comes into contact with the delicate skin around your eyes, as well as sweat, oil, and makeup residue. Over time, this creates an environment where bacteria can thrive.

Every time you reuse an unwashed sleep mask, you’re reintroducing these impurities to your skin and eyes. This can lead to clogged pores, irritation, or more serious issues like eye infections. Optician Kuram Sarwar notes that wearing an unwashed sleep mask increases the risk of conditions like conjunctivitis.

Want to know the benefits of using a sleep mask? Read how the right sleep mask can improve your sleep.

How to wash your sleep mask based on the material

The best way to clean your sleep mask depends on the material. Always check the care label for specific instructions, and follow these simple tips:

Silk sleep masks

Silk is gentle on the skin but requires extra care.

  • Hand-wash your silk sleep mask in lukewarm water using a mild detergent suitable for silk.
  • Lay it flat to dry to prevent damage or distortion.

Cotton sleep masks

Cotton is durable and easy to clean.

  • Wash your cotton sleep mask in the washing machine at 30-40°C.
  • Use a laundry bag to protect the fabric, if desired.

Polyester sleep masks

Polyester is low-maintenance and easy to wash.

  • Machine wash at up to 40°C.
  • Add fabric softener to reduce static electricity.

Plush fabrics (fleece, velvet, etc.)

Soft materials like fleece or velvet require gentle care.

  • Hand-wash or use a delicate machine cycle, depending on the care label.

No matter the material, always check the washing instructions to extend the life of your sleep mask while keeping it clean and safe for your skin and eyes.

Don’t forget your sleep mask when washing your bedding

Research from 2022 shows that using a sleep mask can improve sleep quality by blocking out light, helping you fall asleep faster, and promoting deeper rest.

However, while most of us regularly change our sheets and wash our pyjamas, sleep masks often go overlooked. They come into daily contact with your skin, so they should be cleaned frequently to prevent skin irritation or eye infections.

Looking for more advice on how to improve your sleep? Our Morningstar Sleeps team is here to help with personalized guidance and high-quality products. Contact us today and make your sleep a top priority!