Ever Wondered Why Train Bedsheets Are Always White? Indian Railways’ ‘Systematic Plan’ Explained

Indian Railways continues to add new coaches, better seats, and improved services for passengers. Yet one thing has remained unchanged for many years: the white bedsheets in AC coaches. Do you also wonder why the railways haven’t switched to brighter or more colourful sheets?

The reason lies in hygiene and durability. The railway washes these bedsheets with hot steam at around 121 degrees Celsius, which effectively removes dirt and kills germs. Despite repeated washing at such high temperatures, the white fabric retains its clean, fresh appearance.

If the sheets were any other colour, they would fade quickly and need frequent replacement, driving up costs. Recently, the railway has introduced bedsheets with Sanganeri prints that are washable,

durable, and designed to last. Currently in the testing phase, if passengers respond positively, these printed bedsheets could soon become a new feature on train journeys.

Why White Bedsheets Still Rule AC Coaches

Taking to Instagram, a content creator explained, “If you have ever travelled in an AC train, you may have noticed that passengers are given white bedsheets and pillows. Some people think the railway chose this colour randomly, but that is not true. There is proper planning behind this choice. Indian Railways cleans these bedsheets using steam at a temperature of 121 degrees so that all dirt and bacteria are fully removed. Even after such strong cleaning, white fabric stays the same. If any other colour was used, it would have faded after repeated washing and the railway have to replace it. This is one main reason why white was chosen.”

“The railway has recently introduced bedsheets with Sanganeri prints. These covers can be washed and the fabric has been selected to last longer. Right now, this is a pilot project, but if it gets good feedback, such bedsheets may be used more in the future,” he added.

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A post shared by Saurav Sharma (@jaanogyan)

‘Something New Is Needed,’ Says Internet

Reacting to the post, a user suggested, “White is better so we can see the dirt. Coloured sheets, we won’t know if they were even washed or not.”

“Something new is needed. It would be good if the railway adopts this idea,” a comment read.

What RTI Revealed About Railway Laundries

Passengers travelling in AC coaches usually find bedsheets, pillows, and blankets placed on their seats in brown packets. The white sheets and pillow covers often look clean, so passengers generally feel comfortable using them. However, concerns arise around the blankets. In 2024, Indian Railways confirmed, via a Right to Information (RTI) request reported by The Indian Express, that blankets are cleaned only once or twice a month, depending on their condition.

This revelation has raised hygiene concerns among passengers. The RTI also disclosed that Indian Railways operates 46 in-house laundries and partners with 25 private laundries across the country.