How Gross Is It to Skip Washing Your Sleep Mask?

If you’re religious about washing your pillowcases and pajamas, you might want to extend that hygiene habit to your sleep mask, too. While it might not seem like a big deal, neglecting to wash your sleep mask regularly can take a toll on your skin and possibly your eyes.

Here’s what dermatologists want you to know about sleep mask hygiene, how often to clean it, and why this simple step could make a big difference for your face.

Why Your Sleep Mask Could Be a Magnet for Grime

Wearing a sleep mask can help block light, boost melatonin, and support deeper rest but like any fabric that touches your skin nightly, it can quickly become a hotbed for oil, sweat, and bacteria.

Even if you wash your face before bed, your skin still produces oils and sheds dead skin cells overnight. “These substances can transfer onto your sleep mask and accumulate over time,” explains Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell–New York Presbyterian Medical Center.

That buildup can:

• Clog pores and cause breakouts

• Irritate the sensitive skin around the eyes

• Potentially introduce bacteria that may lead to eye infections

And if your mask is made from synthetic fabrics like polyester or rayon, that irritation risk goes up. These materials are less breathable and can trap moisture and debris more easily than natural fibers like cotton or silk.

What the Research Says About Dirty Face Coverings

While there’s limited research on sleep masks specifically, similar studies on reusable cloth face masks offer some clues. According to an October 2020 study published in the Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, people who reused unwashed cloth face masks for several days in a row were 1.5 times more likely to experience acne or facial itching compared to those who used fresh ones daily.

Since a sleep mask presses against the face in a similar way and often remains there for hours it’s reasonable to assume the same risk applies.

How Often Should You Wash It?

Dr. Garshick recommends washing your sleep mask at least once a week, even if it doesn’t look dirty. “A visual inspection is helpful, too,” she says. If you wake up and notice any oil stains, eye makeup smears, or product residue, toss it in the wash before wearing it again.

Have sensitive or acne-prone skin? You may want to increase that to twice a week, depending on how oily your skin tends to be.

How to Clean a Sleep Mask the Right Way

Most masks can be machine-washed using cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners, as these can leave behind residue that may irritate your face.

If your sleep mask is made of a delicate material (like silk or lace), it’s best to hand wash it with gentle soap and lukewarm water. Lay it flat to dry, and ensure it’s completely dry before putting it back on your face.

If you have sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic laundry detergents. Dr. Garshick recommends All Free & Clear for this reason.

Should You Choose a Different Fabric?

For sensitive skin types or anyone prone to irritation, natural fibers like silk or cotton are best. They’re breathable and less likely to trap heat and moisture against your skin. A 100% mulberry silk option, like those made by SLIP or Blissy, can also reduce friction against the delicate eye area helping minimize fine lines and irritation.

The Bottom Line

Not washing your sleep mask may not seem like a big deal but over time, it can increase the risk of skin irritation, acne, and even eye infections. The good news? Keeping your mask clean is simple and only requires a quick toss in the laundry once a week.

It’s a tiny habit that can help support clearer skin, better eye health, and if you’re someone who sleeps better when everything feels clean maybe even a better night’s rest.

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