If you are thinking about how to wash pillows, you’ve found the right post. It’s essential that you learn how to properly clean it because not doing so can cause many health issues.
According to experts, you should be able to fluff your pillow every day and wash it at least every quarter.
While most of us are used to washing our pillowcases and sheets, we don’t often think about our pillows. However, you need to remember that hair, sweat, dry skin cells, and even your saliva could build up on your pillow over time. And just so you know, dust mites love these things. They could breed on your pillow and you might get allergies. Not a good thought, right?
So, how do you take care of your pillows and prolong its lifespan? Here are a few tips that could help you.
Buy Quality Pillow Protector
You’ve probably heard about mattress protectors and perhaps invested in a good one already. Now, you should be able to get pillow protectors so you can prolong the life of your pillows, and at the same time, protect yourself from disgusting dirt and other stuff. Here’s one we’ve recently found online.
Amazon Basics 100% Cotton Hypoallergenic Pillow Protector Case
Check the latest price on Amazon.
If you are working on a tight budget, this pillow protector from Amazon Basics could be the best choice. It’s made from 100% cotton and is hypoallergenic. You can ensure that common allergens and dust are minimized by using this product. It has a zipper closure that fully closes the pillow and ensures that it will look neat and clean. You may use a machine to wash it and tumble dry on low heat. Remember not to dry clean it.
Most of its current users believe that getting this brand is an awesome deal, and we couldn’t agree more. It’s straightforward and does the job just fine.
Fluff and Hang Them Outdoors
Your pillows need some fluffing every day. This will retain its shape and could also remove the dust. Do this as you clean up your bed.
In addition, hang them outside and let the sun dry it out every month. For foam and latex pillows, you can use a dryer on a no-heat cycle.
Spot Treat the Stains
Just in case your pillow has wet stains, we encourage that you spot clean it right away before you throw it into the washer.
If you have a huge washing machine, you can wash at least two pillows at the same time. This is ideal so that the water and the soap can circulate properly, thereby cleaning your pillows the best possible way.
For pillows with feather fills, you must use cool water and mild detergent. Make sure that you dry it on low heat to avoid damages. For buckwheat hulls, you should empty the filling and place it on a wide shallow bowl. From there, expose the buckwheat to direct sunlight to remove odors. As for the casing, you can also use mild detergent and cool water.
Some of the common questions we receive are the following:
Can you wash latex pillows?
Can you wash foam pillows?
If you plan to wash latex and foam pillows, we encourage that you do it by hand. If you use the machine, it could break it right away. But before you wash it, you can vacuum it first, spot clean, and use a mild detergent. Lay the pillow flat and have it air-dried.
Speaking of mild detergent, here’s one that has become our favorite.
ECOS® 2X Hypoallergenic Liquid Laundry Detergent
Check the latest price on Amazon.
What we love about this mild detergent is that it can remove dirt, yet it is still gentle on the fabric. It is made in the USA so you can guarantee its quality. It doesn’t contain parabens, dyes, and even phosphates. The detergent is extremely gentle, it’s even recommended by dermatologists.
It’s not surprising that a lot of its users are satisfied with the product. Take note, though, that this isn’t effective for heavily soiled or smelly garments.
Ensure That It Is Completely Dry
It’s important to remember that your pillow should be completely dry. Otherwise, it might have mildew. We do not recommend using your automatic dryer because it cannot thoroughly dry the pillow. If you must know, it can only detect moisture on the surface. As a result, your pillow will still be damped.
It is still best that you hang it outside, and don’t forget to check if it is indeed dry already before you keep it.
Always Read the Label
Before you wash your pillows, make it a habit to read the label or the fine print. There might be specific instructions that you have to follow. Not doing so might damage your pillow, and you might end up buying a new one. Now, that’s impractical and something we want you to avoid.
Step-by-Step Process on How To Wash Your Pillows
- Remove the case
- Throw your pillows into your washing machine
- Add the detergent
- Begin the wash cycle and set to bulky or large, if available
- Place it in the dryer or hang it (you may use two tennis balls placed in white socks)
- Check your pillows if it is dry
Take note that the steps are not applicable for foam pillows.
For more tips, you can watch this short video on how to wash pillows.
When To Change Your Pillows
Sure, you know how to clean and wash your pillows. But it’s also good to know when you need to replace it. According to some, you should change it after every two years. However, we do understand that some pillows could last longer. It depends on how you use it and how you take care of it.
Conclusion
Your pillows deserve some love from you. And it will also benefit your health. It’s good that you now know how to wash pillows properly. That way, you can sleep soundly without worrying if you’d get allergies after. Just follow the tips above, and you are good to go. It’s not complicated, and even kids can do it.
