If they are queen size or larger, you may want to wash the top and bottom sheets separately to give them enough room in the machine.
It’s important to omit the detergent, as it tends to lock chemicals into the sheets. These chemicals contribute to the stiffness of the sheets, so it’s better to remove them.
This will help to soften the sheets further, but is completely optional. The baking soda will work on its own. [1] X Research source
This will help to soften them further. If you don’t have space to dry them outside, place in the dryer and dry on a low setting - drying at too high a temperature can cause shrinkage. [2] X Research source
Although washing them twice sounds like a lot of work, it really helps to soften the sheets. Dry outside or in the dryer, then iron them (if you like) and place them directly on the bed.
For ultimate softness (and durability) buy good quality cotton sheets with a high thread count.
Rinse thoroughly to remove most of the turpentine. Hang the sheets outside or on a clothes horse to dry. It is very important that you do not put the sheets in the dryer after washing with turpentine as turpentine is combustible and could cause a fire.
Leave the sheets to soak overnight in the Epsom salts mixture. The following morning, rinse the sheets out thoroughly, then hang them outside to dry. [4] X Research source
Add the sheets to the water, stir them around and leave them to soak overnight. Rinse thoroughly the next morning and hang outside to dry.
