Introduction
Everyone knows the importance of washing sheets, but what about pillows? Your pillows are prone to absorbing sweat, drool, and bacteria, which can lead to a range of health issues and allergic reactions. Washing pillows regularly can prevent these problems and help you sleep better. But what if you’ve never washed your pillows before? Where do you even start?
Don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll go over all the different ways to wash pillows, whether you prefer the classic machine method or a more hands-on approach. We’ll also share tips and tricks for preventing clumps and mold, removing stains, and using natural cleaning solutions. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the tools you need to keep your pillows clean and fresh.
The Classic Method: A Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Pillows in the Washing Machine
The washing machine is the most convenient way to wash pillows, and it can be done quickly and effectively if you follow these steps:
Preparation
First, check the label of your pillow to make sure it’s safe to wash. Most pillows can be machine washed, but some may require hand washing or dry cleaning. Next, remove the pillowcase and any other coverings. If the pillow is stained particularly bad, pre-treat the area with a stain remover before washing. Lastly, add the appropriate amount of detergent to the detergent dispenser.
Best practices
Set the water temperature to warm and the setting to a gentle cycle. It’s important not to overload the machine as this can cause the pillows to not clean properly, to distribute evenly the detergents and the rinse water. Select an extra rinse cycle to remove all traces of detergent from the pillow and prevent any residual soap from causing skin irritation while sleeping.
Drying
After the washing cycle is complete, it’s time to dry the pillows. For most pillows, it’s best to use the low heat setting on your dryer, as high heat can cause damage and clumping to the filling material. To prevent clumps, add a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls inside of the dryer with the pillows. Check the pillows every 20 minutes to ensure that they’re drying evenly and avoid overloading the dryer.
Hand Washing Pillows: Tips and Tricks to Get Your Pillows Squeaky Clean
For particularly delicate pillows, hand washing may be the best option. Here’s how to do it:
When to hand wash pillows
Hand washing is best when you have pillows made from natural materials like feather or down that may clump or lose shape in the washing machine or have special instructions in the label.
Steps
First, soak the pillow in a bathtub or a basin filled with warm water and a mild detergent. Agitate the pillow gently with your hands, focusing on any stained areas. Rinse the pillow thoroughly with clean water and repeat until the water runs clear.
Drying
To dry the pillows after hand-washing, use a clean towel to blot out excess water gently without wringing too hard or twisting. Air-dry your pillow outside on a sunny day or gently dry it by using a fan to prevent mold.
Pillow Care 101: The Dos and Don’ts to Keep Your Pillows Clean
Preventative care is as important as washing your pillows correctly. Here are some tips and tricks to keep your pillows in tip-top shape and avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
Preventative care
Use a pillow protector to create a barrier between your pillow and external sources of dirt and oil from your hair and skin. Fluff your pillows daily to help distribute the filling material evenly.
Don’ts
Avoid using too much detergent or bleach, as this can cause lasting damage to the filling material and reduce its effectiveness. Furthermore, refrain from using fabric softeners which can reduce the absorbency of the pillow and ultimately make you feel hotter while sleeping.
Spot Cleaning Pillows: How to Tackle Stains and Spills
Sometimes accidents happen, and pillows can become stained or soiled. Here’s how to take care of them quickly and efficiently.
Common stains
Common stains can be sweat, drool, or other liquids, to name a few. In such cases, it is important to first treat the stain as soon as possible to avoid settling in on the pillow.
Cleaning tools
Small stains only require water, a mild detergent, a clean sponge, and a container for mixing the solution. For deeper stains, refer to the pillow label to determine which clear stain removal solution is safe to use.
Steps
Blot out any excess liquid with a paper towel, starting from the outer edges and moving inward, to prevent the stain from spreading. After that, dip the sponge in the solution, and apply it to the stained area in a gentle fashion. Rinse the area with clean water and blot away any remaining water using paper towels. Finally, air dry the pillow.
All Natural Pillow Cleaning: Make Your Own Cleaning Solution for Pillow Care
For those who prefer using natural remedies, we have several recipes to try out that will keep your pillows smelling fresh without the use of harmful chemicals.
Benefits of using natural cleaning solutions
Natural cleaning solutions are free of harsh chemicals, which makes them a healthier alternative to commercial products. Furthermore, such mixtures usually contain natural extracts with refreshing (and sometimes even aromatherapeutic) properties to soothe you to sleep.
Recipes
One natural recipe to try is a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water, perfect for removing odors and buildup. For a calming effect, mix a few drops of lavender essential oil into warm water or white vinegar and spray over the pillow. Tea tree oil is another useful ingredient for cleaning pillows, capable of killing bacteria and preventing mold.
Tips
Using these mixtures sparingly is crucial, as using too much may complicate the washing process. Test a small area first to make sure there are no adverse reactions.
The Dryer Method: How to Fluff and Refresh Pillows in the Dryer
The dryer method is a quick and easy way to give your pillows a quick refresh when you don’t have time to wash them. Here’s how it works.
When to use the dryer method
The dryer method is recommended for pillows that are not stained or soiled but need a good fluffing.
Steps
Add the fully-dried pillows and a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to a dryer on a low setting. The balls will help fluff and distribute your pillows’ filling material for even distribution, a vital part of ensuring a good night of sleep. Let the dryer run for 15-20 minutes, checking every 5 minutes, until the pillows are back to their original fluffiness.
Benefits
Even though it is not a full cleaning process, this simple and easy method refreshes smelly pillows or flattened ones in no time.
When to Replace Pillows: A Guide to Understanding When it’s Time to Toss and Buy New Ones
Pillows don’t last forever, and they need to be replaced regularly to ensure that you’re getting the right support and hygiene. Here’s how to know when it’s time to replace your pillows.
Signs that pillows need to be replaced
The first sign is odor and stains that have set permanently onto the pillows or a noticeable lack of fluffiness. In addition to this, waking up with a stiff neck or other aches is a sure sign they’ve lost their shape and restore capability.
Explanation of why pillows need to be replaced
Sleeping on the same pillow for too long can lead to allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and headaches, especially when they accumulate sweat, dust, and allergens.
Factors to consider when buying new pillows
Consider factors such as the filling material, whether the pillow is hypoallergenic, and the size and shape you’ll need to rest well and sleep comfortably. Nowadays, pillows are not limited to the traditional down, memory foam, or standard fillings; there are new and innovative materials that provide quality sleeping experience.
Conclusion
With the right care and maintenance, you can keep your pillows fresh, clean, and ready to use for a good night’s sleep. Whether you prefer the classic machine washing method, hand-washing, spot cleaning, or natural cleaning solutions, these tips and tricks will guarantee your pillow is in perfect condition. Remember to check the label of your pillow for specific care instructions and follow our guide on when to replace pillows. With this ultimate guide, you’re sure to be acquainted with everything needed for proper pillow hygiene and maintenance.