Learn how to wash your white sheets without using bleach. 

My friend recently shared her reluctance to buy white bed sheets, saying she loves the crisp, clean look of white bed linens, but feared they’d take on the look of a tattered white t-shirt after a few washes. In light of this conversation, I'm sharing how to wash white sheets (and keep them white) without bleach. Read on to find out more.

First, pre-soak the sheets in a tub filled with warm water and ½ cup of white vinegar. Let the sheets soak for up to one hour. Wring them out before moving to the washing machine   Pre-treat. I use The Laundress Wash and Stain Bar on any stubborn spots.

Wash in warm water. You may regularly run a cold cycle for clothing (cold water means less shrinking, fading and setting stains; plus, it saves energy), but consider a warm–hot cycle for deep cleaning white bed linens.   Use a gentle detergent. I’ve been using The Laundress Whites Detergent; its formula contains enzymes that keep whites white and extend the life of white fabrics. It's also nontoxic and free of allergens and dyes – so I'm happy to get into bed with it, so to speak.  

Weather permitting, hang outside on the line to dry and let the sun do its thing. If that's not possible, tumble dry on low.   Do you have any tips for washing whites? Top Photography, Nina Teixeira; Middle and Bottom Photography, Petal and Post.