Today we are going to clean the bedding and bed linens. Start with the master bedroom and read the labels on the bedding. Most bedspreads and linens can be washed in the clothes washer on the comforter or large capacity setting. Use a mild detergent and softener if desired. After the wash cycle is completed, put the items in the dryer or hang out to dry. The fresh air makes the bed linens smell fresh and wonderful. Sheets can be washed in the washer as well. If you don’t have a mattress cover, you may want to invest in one to preserve and protect your mattress.  If you have one, wash it now in hot water and either air dry or dry in the dryer. Some bedding needs to be dry cleaned. You can take these to the cleaner if heavily soiled. If not heavily soiled, you can dry clean at home with a home dry cleaning kit. First, spot clean with dry cleaning fluid and freshen in the dryer and the dry cleaning sheets ( You can also try using wet dryer sheets to freshen bedding: moisten the dryers sheets in water and add to the dryer).

Dust Ruffles: These also only need periodic cleaning. These can usually be washed in the washer and dried outside or in the dryer. Again, check the labels prior to washing.

In between washings, heavy blankets and pillows can be aired outside to remove dust and hair. The best time to air out fabrics is in late winter before the plants bloom and pollen emerges. The crisp cold air does wonders to freshen fabrics.

As you have all the bedding removed for cleaning, now is a good time to rotate and flip your mattress. Performed monthly, this strategy will extend the life of your mattress and help you enter a move comfortable, rejuvenating sleep. Truly transformative if you ask me:).

Continue with all the bedding in the house until finished. This may take you several days but keep working on the Transformational Organization process while you are washing and drying all the bedding in your home.

Note: Extra blankets and pillows can be washed and aired out so that they are ready for use. If you have frequent guests, launder the bedding used for guest bedding and put into a large plastic bag. Add a dryer sheet or two and close the bag. When you are preparing for guests, the bedding will be fresh and ready to go. If you don’t have  a guest bed, an inflatable mattress on hand is a convenient solution. Set aside bedding that is the appropriate size for the inflatable mattress. You can store this in a bag or chest until you are ready for guests. This will help you to be prepared for any circumstance in having unexpected company.

You are finished with the bedding and everything is fresh and clean. Time to celebrate with our self-nurturing ritual of the day.