With good flannel sheet care, one can help even inexpensive sheets look new for years to come. Some of the basics of sheet care can be applied to maintaining any type of fabric, from cotton clothing to upholstery. Most of the methods that are used to extend the life of a sheet will add little or no extra effort, so the amount of time devoted to household chores will remain the same.

Setting the stage for good flannel sheet care can begin even before they are brought home. Sheets that are made with 100% natural materials like cotton tend to fare far better over the long run than those that are made with synthetic materials. Synthetic materials can cause pilling, which make sleep uncomfortable and sheets look a bit threadbare. Choosing whether to buy standard cotton or organic is a matter of personal choice that will have little bearing on how long the sheet itself will last.

When it is time to wash your sheets, avoid using extremely hot water. While many prefer this setting, as they believe it to be more effective at getting clothing items clean, it can actually cause fabrics to age prematurely. For sheets that are lightly soiled, it is best to choose a warm or mild setting on your washing machine. This will put far less stress on the fabric and will keep them looking fresh for much longer.

The same thing is true of heavy detergents. Though many brands advertise based on their strength, it is generally not good to use heavy duty detergent with each washing. These abrasive cleaners can leave sheets looking worn out and thin. Instead, use the mildest detergent that is effective. Whenever possible, avoid any brands that contain bleach. In order to improve the color of your sheets, as well as the softness, consider adding a bit of vinegar to your machine when doing the wash.

Avoid machine drying. Hanging all your laundry to dry, not just your sheets but clothing as well, will eliminate problems with shrinking and can help reduce the appearance of small holes that are sometimes caused by over drying. Not only will your fabrics look better, but you may notice a steep drop in your electricity bill.

Some good flannel sheet care is preventative. If you notice a spill, be sure to deal with it as quickly as possible before it becomes a stain.