Ever thought about how often to wash your pillows? If you answered a resounding no, you're not alone. We often wash protective cases regularly, as we tend to see how filthy these can get after a week of usage. Dust, dirt, and moisture can get into the pillows just as much as the pillowcase, so washing your pillows should be done on a regular basis.
Thankfully, most pillows can be cleaned using the washing machine, tossed in with a couple of tennis balls to retain the fluffy texture of the pillow. Your washing machine would have a gentle cycle that works well for washing pillows as well, and this makes cleaning pillows convenient!
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
How often to wash pillows depends on how you use your pillow. Ideally, you should give your pillows a thorough cleaning at least once every month to refresh your pillows, and help keep your pillows plump. If you have two pillows or more, then you can wash them one by one so you have an alternative to use while the other is drying.
This goes without saying, but you should wash your pillows when they are visibly dirty, even if it's between the 30-day period. There are some materials that you cannot wash, however, like foam-filled pillows that can disintegrate in the wash.
For these kinds of pillows, it is best to hand wash them, or use a dry cleaning method to refresh a foam pillow without breaking the material. Wash your pillows any time you feel that your pillow is grimey, or is starting to smell awful.
How to Wash Pillows
Step 1: Gather your Supplies
You don't need a lot of supplies when washing. All you'll need are a few household staples and a laundry machine to clean your pillows. Here's what you need:
- Laundry Detergent
- Baking Soda
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Damp Cloth
- Tennis Balls (Optional, but Recommended)
- Soft Brush
Step 2: Strip the Casing off the Pillow
Don't wash your pillows with the case on! The proper way of cleaning a pillow is to remove the protective case first, then inspect the pillow for any moisture stains, mildew marks, and other spots that need some extra cleaning.
You can wash the casing in the same laundry load as the pillow to save on water and resources. However, keep the case stripped off the pillow for a thorough cleaning.
Step 3: Spot Clean the Pillow
Use a homemade spot cleaner made from baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to tackle the stains before you wash the entire thing. Make a paste out of the two ingredients, and use a soft brush to scrub the paste deep into the pillow fibers.
Leave the paste to work its cleaning powers for at least 30 minutes - the longer the better. Use a damp cloth to blot out the stained mark, which may spread if left to stay on the pillow. If your paste dries too quickly, you can use a bit of warm water to help with the stain removal.
Step 4: Throw Pillows in the Washing Machine
You should toss in two pillows at the same time to keep the washing machine balanced, however, using tennis balls can also help keep the fluff of your pillow during the washing cycle. Let your laundry machine run a full cycle, using a small amount of laundry detergent to get rid of the rest of the grime.
For foam pillows, best to hand wash these instead as the pressure from the laundry machine may be too much for the material. Scrub the surface of foam pillows clean, and wring out as much moisture as you can, then let the pillow air dry completely. Do NOT place foam materials in the dryer.
Step 5: Tumble Dry Pillow
Place your pillow in the tumble dryer to remove excess moisture, and to add a bit of fluffiness. This will make it easier to dry the material, as well as fluff up the pillow as it air dries. Let it air dry completely before using to prevent mold growth.
If you did the dry clean method, then you no longer have to dry your pillow. We do recommend you still fluff up the pillow for a plump comfort as you sleep.
The Importance of Washing Your Pillows Regularly
You can't get a good night's sleep without a clean bed, and that includes your pillow. Take the time to care for your furniture, as cleaning allows you to enjoy them in their best condition longer.
Washing gets rid of dust mites, dead skin cells, and general dirt from fabric surfaces If your pillow cannot be washed with soap and water, best to use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the dust mites and dead skin cells instead.
Washing all the parts of your bed is essential to good sleep, and can keep you healthy without the dangers of potential allergens, germs, or bacteria lingering around your bedroom. Plus, a fluffy pillow should cradle your head to support it while you sleep.
A Good, Clean Sleep
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