Linen comfort and cleanliness are essential to resident satisfaction in the healthcare industry. However, even the highest-quality products have a limited lifespan and need regular replacement to maintain hygiene, comfort, and the overall resident experience. From pillows and mattress pads to towels and sheets, here’s a guide to how often these essential items should be replaced—and why it matters.
Pillows: Every 1-2 Years to maintain hygiene and comfort for residents
Pillows endure constant use and absorb oils, sweat, and dust mites, even with protective covers. Over time, they lose their shape and support, leading to discomfort and poor sleep quality for residents. Signs it’s time to replace:
- Flattening or lumpiness
- Visible stains or odors
- Loss of support, leading to neck discomfort
Pro Tip: Use pillow protectors to extend lifespan and maintain freshness between washes.
Nursing Home Specifics: Nursing homes should have a policy in place regarding pillow replacement, often based on the resident’s needs and the frequency of linen changes.
Mattress Pads & Underpads/Incontinence Pads: Every 1-2 Years
Mattress pads enhance resident comfort and protect the mattress from spills, dust, and allergens. However, frequent laundering and continuous use wear them down. Signs of replacement include:
- Visible wear and tear or thinning padding
- Persistent odors despite washing
- Reduced cushioning and comfort
Pro Tip: Rotate mattress pads regularly and invest in high-quality, durable options designed for commercial laundering.
Towels: Every 6 Months to 2 Years
Towels go through heavy laundering cycles, leading to fabric breakdown over time. Rough, faded, or thin towels create a negative resident impression. Watch for:
- Loss of softness and absorbency
- Fraying edges or thinning fabric
- Persistent musty smells, even after washing
Pro Tip: Use a proper laundry process with mild detergents to extend longevity, and replace towels in high-traffic areas more frequently.
Sheets & Duvet Covers: Every 1-2 Years
Bedding is a critical part of resident comfort and cleanliness. Daily laundering causes fiber breakdown, fading, and loss of smoothness over time. Signs of wear include:
- Pilling or thinning fabric
- Faded or stained appearance
- Loss of softness and crisp feel
Pro Tip: Rotate multiple sets of sheets and follow proper washing techniques to maintain quality.
Why Regular Replacement Matters
- Enhances Resident Experience – Fresh, high-quality linens contribute to comfort and satisfaction.
- Improves Hygiene – Replacing worn-out items prevents bacterial buildup and allergens.
- Protect Your Facilities’ Reputation – Well-maintained linens reflect cleanliness and attention to detail, key factors in resident reviews.
Upgrade Your Linens with 1Concier
At 1Concier, we provide high-quality healthcare linens designed for durability and comfort. Whether you need pillows, mattress pads, underpads, towels, or sheets, we’ve got you covered with premium products built to withstand commercial use.