Should I Strip My Massage Sheets?
There’s been some discussion amongst massage therapists on stripping massage sheets. Jordan and I chatted about this on Episode 27 of The Massage Life Podcast if you want to have a listen!
What is laundry stripping?
Laundry stripping is an aggressive cleaning method designed to remove built-up soil, laundry detergent and fabric softener from “clean” laundry with a chemical solution and overnight hot water soak.
Some massage therapists feel like doing this on a regular basis is necessary; however, from personal experience as an RMT (and years of cloth diapering my kids, where this topic comes up a lot), and from laundry experts such as Maytag, it should not be needed if your laundry is washed correctly in the first place.
Why should I not bother?
It’s time intensive, rather pricey (you have to purchase Borax and Washing Soda), and may even damage the fabric.
What should I do instead?
Trust me, I’ve had issues in the past with oil stains and musty sheets and both problems can be solved by using the correct oil/lotion and correct washing routine.
Step 1: Choosing a Good Oil/Lotion
I’ve tried a lot of different options since I started massaging in 2007. I found a lot were difficult to wash out of sheets. One of the worst culprits was coconut oil (both fractionated and non-fractionated). It left my sheets smelling pretty funky.
My favourites right now are:
Holly Oil
I love this stuff! It has a long shelf life, is hypoallergenic, unscented, non-comedogenic and economical.
Myo-ther Signature Massage Lotion
Creamy and dreamy! This lotion is made in Canada, hypo-allergenic, and water-based (so it washes out easily!).
Pump for Gallon Bottles
Make your life easier and buy one of these pumps so you can easily fill your smaller bottles.
Step 2: Choosing a good wash routine
Many issues can be prevented from just having a good routine from the get-go.
Wash ASAP. The longer oily sheets sit, the longer the oil has to penetrate into the fibres. Also, oily sheets can pose a fire risk (freaky!).
Wash in the hottest setting. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m a cold-water gal for most of my regular laundry, but hot water is recommended for oil stains. Hot water is also recommended by most massage associations to sanitize linens as they have potentially come in contact with bodily fluids.
Wash with good detergent and use the proper amount. Now isn’t the time for homemade concoctions. Use a well-known brand such as Tide. I recommend the unscented versions as many clients are sensitive. I’m using the Costco brand unscented liquid detergent and it’s been good! Also, many people use too much detergent which can cause build up problems. Read and follow the instructions.
Don’t overfill the washing machine!
Dry on low or medium. I don’t recommend high heat, again for fire safety concerns. Allow to dry fully before storing to avoid musty smells and mildew.
More Laundry Tips:
Regularly clean your washing machine
Especially those front loaders!
Wash ALL of the linens
I know that some of you are not washing top blankets between every client. Yuck. You never know if someone sits on it with their naked butt or something. These blankets are only $2.99 - no excuses!
Cover table heaters
If you use a table warmer, you should cover it with a vinyl cover and wipe down the cover between each client. This Master brand one is durable and you can still feel the heat through it.
Choose cozy yet durable sheets
My clients RAVE about my microfiber sheets. I also find white looks professional and clean.
Still having laundry problems?
This concentrated cleaner contains enzymes which work to fully break down stains into carbon dioxide and water, whether they are oils (lipids), proteins (blood) or carbohydrates. It is highly effective at removing grease and oils.
