Reconnecting with the earth could positively affect human physiology, reducing chronic pain and stress, as well as improving sleep quality and general wellbeing.
It’s not practical to sleep directly on the earth itself. But thanks to some particular devices, you can recreate this connection while staying nice and comfy. In this article, we’ll show you how to use grounding sheets (also known as earthing sheets), giving you all the essential information you need to get the most from the earthing effect.
What Are the Benefits of Using Earthing Sheets?
Before we delve into how to use these items, let’s recap the benefits they can offer.
The “earthing hypothesis” states that being in contact with the ground equalises the charges in our bodies and allows us to become more electrically healthy by taking on extra free electrons and negative ions.
Studies have shown that the earthing effect can provide many benefits, including:
- Reduced insomnia
- Improved sleep depth and duration
- Less fatigue in the morning
- Improved energy throughout the day
- Reduced stress (lower cortisol levels), anxiety and depression
- Pain relief from chronic disease
- Reduction in chronic inflammation
- Stronger immune system
- Improved circulation with reduced blood viscosity
While you can go walking barefoot in your garden or the park, the most significant benefit of grounding comes from sleeping in connection with the earth.
After all, we ideally sleep for around eight hours a day, and much regeneration occurs in that period. So, being earthed as you rest during the night has the advantage of a long contact time, precisely when our bodies can use it the most.
What Is the Correct Way to Use a Grounding Sheet?
A grounding sheet is a regular high-quality cotton sheet with a conductive material woven into it (usually stainless steel, carbon or silver thread). This particular fabric provides an electrical connection from your body, via the earth wire in your home’s wiring system, to the ground without you having to compromise on comfort.
Using a grounding sheet is easy as long as you pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions. In general, these will be as follows:
- Place the sheet on your bed just like a regular one. Fitted sheets are the easiest to use.
- Check the ground connection on your electrical outlet with the earth socket tester if there’s one included with your kit. Usually, you just plug it in, and the light will glow green to show the earth connection is good.
- Connect the earth wire to the adapter and plug that into your electrical socket.
- Make sure you run the cable so you won’t trip over it if you get up at night. You can use an extension lead so long as it’s earthed with a three-core cable.
Can You Wear Pyjamas When You Sleep on a Grounding Sheet?
Yes, you can wear pyjamas when sleeping on a grounding sheet. However, to get the most benefit, you want as much skin contact with the sheet as possible.
If you want to wear your PJs, make sure they’re cotton, hemp, bamboo or a poly-cotton blend. Fully synthetic materials will completely block the electrical connection. Remember that your feet are the most conductive part of your body, so it’s best to have bare feet and not wear socks.
It’s also a good idea not to wear metallic jewellery while sleeping as this can affect your electrical charge.
How Do You Care For Your Earthing Sheet?
You must follow the instructions that come with your particular grounding sheet to ensure you care for it properly.
If you don’t wash it correctly, the metallic material woven inside the sheet can quickly lose its conductivity and, in the long run, reduce or remove the earthing effect altogether.
- Generally, it’s best to wash the sheet on its own, without any other clothing or bed linen.
- Machine wash the sheet on a cool, or at most warm, setting. Do not hot wash!
- Use a very mild detergent as specified by the sheet manufacturer.
- Do not use fabric softener as these can damage the conductive weave.
- Never use bleach, whitening detergents or oils, including coconut or lavender oils.
- Avoid high spin cycles.
- Do not tumble dry
Be aware that residue from softeners or detergents can remain in your machine from its last cycle, so check and clean the detergent drawer. You may need to give your washing machine a run-through with water only before washing your sheet.
Oils from your body may also lessen the effectiveness of the conductive threads over time. Hence, it’s a good idea to shower before you go to bed – this generally also adds the bonus of being relaxing. Make sure to apply any body lotions well before you go to bed, so they have a chance to be fully absorbed.
How Long Do Earthing Sheets Last?
Properly cared for, most earthing sheets last at least two or three years.
As we’ve detailed above, how long yours lasts depends on how well you care for it. The conductive properties can also be affected by your skin type and the humidity in your bedroom.
Some people think not washing the sheet very often will extend its lifespan. However, reasonably regular washing is essential for hygiene. It also removes body oils and organic deposits that would otherwise build up and reduce the conductivity.
Even the best cared-for sheets will have a finite lifespan as the metallic material eventually oxidises and loses its conductivity. You can periodically use the earth connection checker to ensure that the conductive surface still gives you a grounding effect.
Finishing Up
Knowing how to use these products is essential for getting the most out of the full range of benefits they can offer.
The key is to connect your sheet properly to the earthing point, maximise skin contact as much as possible, and ensure you care for it correctly. After that, it’s time to sleep and rebalance your body as you get back in touch with the earth.
Looking for the best earthing sheets? Check out our guide here.