It goes without saying that everyone loves a good pillow. After all, we spend one-third of our lives sleeping. But how often do we consider how to wash pillows? And what better way to ensure a restful night’s sleep than with a soft, clean pillow under your head?
Pillow washing is an important part of keeping your bed healthy and allergen-free, and this guide will show you how to wash your pillows properly so that they stay fresh and free of dust mites!
How To Wash Pillows in the Washing Machine
Pillows are one of those everyday household items that we rarely think about cleaning. Pillows, like sheets and blankets, can accumulate dust, dirt, dead skin, and bacteria over time. Fortunately, washing pillows is simple; all you need is a washing machine and laundry detergent. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to machine wash pillows:
- Check the care label on your pillow first. Most pillows can be washed in the washing machine, with a few exceptions: feathers, down, and delicate fabrics such as silk should be cleaned by hand or dry-cleaned.
- Place your pillow in the washing machine; depending on the size of your machine, you can wash one or two pillows at a time. Add a small amount of gentle laundry detergent – when it comes to detergent, less is more, as using too much can damage the fabric.
- Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle and use cool water. Hot water can damage your pillow’s filling and cause it to lose its shape.
- When the cycle is finished, remove your pillow from the machine and shake it vigorously to fluff up the filling. If it’s still wet, place it in a low-heat dryer or air-dry it by hanging it over a clothesline or laying it flat on a towel. To prevent mould or mildew growth, make sure it’s completely dry before using it again.
If you follow these simple steps, you’ll fall asleep faster and sleep better, knowing your pillows are clean and fresh!
How To Wash Feather Pillows
Many people don’t know how to wash feather pillows, and as a result, they end up with lumpy, musty-smelling pillows that are a far cry from the luxurious bedding they once were. However, washing feather pillows is actually quite easy, as long as you follow a few simple steps.
First and foremost, before washing your pillow, read the care label. Some manufacturers recommend dry cleaning only, while others allow for machine washing on a gentle cycle. If you wash your feather pillow in a washing machine, use a gentle detergent and warm water.
When the cycle is complete, fluff your pillow by hand to help it regain its shape. Finally, hang your pillow to dry on a clothesline or drying rack. You can keep your feather pillows looking and smelling great for years by following these simple steps.
How To Wash Down Pillows
Down pillows must be washed differently than regular pillows, as this natural material must be handled with caution. Follow these simple steps, and your down pillows will look and feel brand new!
Before washing down pillows, as with regular pillows, make sure to read the care label. For some down pillows, washing the pillows in a machine is recommended, whereas others must be dry cleaned.
If your down pillow’s care label indicates that it can be machine washed, you’ll need to prepare your machine. Begin by selecting the delicate cycle and cold water settings. Then, add a small amount of laundry detergent – don’t use too much, or it will harm the down filling – and let the machine do its part.
Once your pillows are clean, it’s time to thoroughly dry them. Put them in the dryer on low heat or, if possible, air-dry them. Throw a couple of clean tennis balls or clean socks in the dryer to help fluff them up as they dry.
When your pillows have dried, fluff them up. This can be accomplished by gently kneading them or by drying them on low heat for 10-15 minutes.
How To Wash a Foam Pillow
Washing your pillows is necessary, and memory foam pillows are no exception. However, you can’t simply throw them in the washing machine like a regular pillow. Instead, in order to properly wash memory foam pillows, you should take a few extra steps to ensure that they’re clean and in good condition.
Remove the pillow cover and any other removable covers first. Then, spot-clean any noticeably stained areas. After that, it’s time to wash the memory foam pillow itself.
Begin by fluffing it up to loosen any dirt or debris embedded in the foam. Then, with a soft brush or cloth, gently scrub the pillow with a mild detergent. Rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry completely before placing it on your bed. Your foam pillow will remain clean and comfortable for years to come with a little care and attention.
How To Dry a Pillow
We all know how pillows can get: soggy with drool, drenched in sweat, or covered in crumbs from a late-night snack. And while there’s nothing wrong with a little wear and tear, sometimes our pillows just need a good cleaning. But how do you dry a pillow? The answer is simpler than you might think.
First, fluff the pillow to help it air out. Then, place it in a dryer on low heat for about 20 minutes. If you don’t have a dryer, you can also lay the pillow in direct sunlight for about an hour. Once the pillow is dry, put on fresh covers and enjoy a good night’s sleep!
How Often Should You Replace Pillows?
One of the most important things you can do to ensure a good night’s sleep is to replace your pillows on a regular basis. But how frequently should they be replaced?
Pillows can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on the type of pillow. Foam and feather pillows, for example, require more frequent replacement than down pillows.
In general, you should replace your pillows at least once every two years to ensure they provide the support and comfort you require. If you notice your pillow losing its shape or becoming lumpy, it’s probably time to replace it.
Take note of how your neck feels when you wake up in the morning, as poor pillows can cause chronic neck pain. So, if you’re feeling more pain or discomfort than usual, it might be time to get new bed pillows. Instead of waiting until your pillows are completely worn out, replace them on a regular basis to get the best sleep possible!
How To Choose a Pillow
It can be difficult to choose the best pillow for your needs, with options ranging from foam to down to feathers. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here’s a quick rundown of the common types of pillows.
Foam pillows are a great option if you need extra support for your neck and head. They’re also good for people with allergies since they don’t contain any natural fibres.
Down or feather pillows are very soft and fluffy, but they can be a bit pricey. They’re also not ideal for people with allergies since they do contain natural fibres.
Regular pillows are a good middle ground between foam and down. They’ll provide decent support and comfort, but they won’t break the bank.
So, which type of pillow should you choose? It really depends on your personal preference and needs. If you need extra support, go for a foam pillow. If you want something soft and fluffy and you can afford it, go for a down or feather pillow. And if you just want a balanced, budget-friendly solution, go for a regular pillow.
Pillows are an important part of a good night’s sleep, so be sure to pick the best pillow that’ll work for you. No matter what you choose, we hope you have sweet dreams!
Cleaning Pillows – Bottom Line
And that’s all there is to it when it comes to washing your pillows! With these simple guidelines in mind, you’ll have clean and comfortable pillows in no time! Just remember that washing pillows doesn’t increase their longevity, so remember to replace them when the time comes.
FAQ
Can I put my pillows in the dryer?
You can, but it’s not always recommended. Pillows filled with materials such as feathers that can be easily damaged by heat should be air-dried. Additionally, the tumbling action of a dryer can cause your pillows to lose their shape. If you must use a dryer, set it to the lowest heat setting and remove the pillows as soon as they’re dry.
How often should pillows be replaced?
Pillows should be replaced every one or two years, regardless of how often you wash them. Over time, pillows will lose their shape and become flattened, which can lead to neck pain. If you notice that your pillow is no longer providing the support it once did, it’s time for a new one.
How often should pillows be washed?
Ideally, you should wash your pillows every 3-6 months. If you have allergies or asthma, you may need to learn how to wash pillows thoroughly and do it more frequently. Dust mites are the main cause of pillow allergies, and these tiny creatures thrive in warm, moist environments. If you live in a humid climate or sweat a lot at night, you should also wash your pillows more frequently.
