In this article, we will suggest you ways to wash pillows. Clean pillows are very good to have a comfy sleep. However, cleaning or washing pillows is one of those lazy tasks that we usually forget and neglect. Washing pillows protects us from the annoying bed-enemies such as dust mites, dirt, etc. People usually wash their sheets and blankets on a weekly or monthly schedule, whereas pillows are only washed occasionally, sometimes may because a person is not sure as how to wash them. There are different types of pillows available in the market, so it depends on the stuffing in pillows to determine which washing method is suitable. Usually a typical washer and dryer are sufficient to wash most bed pillows. Below are some guidelines to help you find the best way to wash and dry pillows without causing extreme wear, tear or making them lose their fluffiness.
Different Types of Pillow Stuffing:
One of the first things that you should know is what type of pillow stuffing exists in the pillow casing. Usually you can find this on the tag, but if there is no tag, how the pillow looks and feels is all the information you require.
Type of Pillow Filler:
- Down: This type of pillow is made up of feathers of geese or ducks. It may cause allergic reactions.
- Foam: These types of pillows are available in many forms. It includes memory foam and contour.
- Polyester: Polyester is the most common pillow stuffing, which is also called fiberfill. It is generally a less expensive option and is non-allergenic.
- Polyester Pellets: It is generally found in stuffed animal toys, floor pillows and neck pillows.
Pillow stuffing is an essential consideration when it’s about washing and drying the pillows. According to the stuffing material, there are some cleaning guidelines exist for pillows. Below are some of the ways to wash pillows.
Ways to Wash Pillows:
1.) Washing Different Pillow Types
You should always check for any washing and drying labels/guidelines. Follow these instructions whenever possible. Most of the down and polyester pillows can be easily washed in the machine, while there are other washing instructions for other types of pillows.
Suggestions:
- When washing, firstly remove all cases and covers, and wash 2 pillows at one time to balance out the washing load.
- If your pillows can tolerate machine drying, they can benefit from an object like a dryer ball, Using ball you can keep your pillows fluffed.
- For this, put 1 clean tennis ball in each of the 2 clean white socks and tie them into the toe of each pillow that needs to be dried.
2.) Washing Down Pillows
If there is no tag on the pillow for washing instruction, it is fine to clean a down pillow in a washing machine with the gentle cycle. Washing them with warm water and a mild detergent is acceptable.
Suggestions:
- Simply dissolve washing detergents thoroughly in the water before keeping the pillows in the washing machine basket.
- It is fine to dry them on the lowest setting possible.
- But remember, the more you wash and dry down pillows, the more likely they are to lose their natural oils.
3.) Washing Foam Pillows
Therapeutic foam or memory foam pillows generally are not suitable for machine-wash. When cleaning foam pillow, make sure you remove casing and covers.
Suggestions:
- Simply spot cleans the pillow foam as required.
- Remember to use as little water as you can. This is because foam disintegrates easily when it is wet.
- In such case, you can also vacuum clean foam pillows with a small suction attachment. Otherwise, just tumble dry them without heat.
4.) Washing Polyester Pillows
These pillows are known by different terms like fiberfill, polyester, and polyester-blends. These pillows are easiest to wash and dry. They can tolerate hot water temperatures, which makes them easier to wash thoroughly.
Suggestions:
- Just tumble dry the pillows on a low heat setting.
- Pause the dryer in between to ensure the fluffiness of the pillows.
- Use a dryer ball or make you own using socks and tennis balls.
5.) Washing Polyester Pellets
It is more difficult to wash pillows that are made up of polyester pellets. This is because the shapes of such pillows are often quite delicate as compared to standard pillows. Such shapes do not allow them to bear the rigors of a machine washing. It is also not suggested to use a machine dryer.
Directions:
- The perfect way to clean these pillows is by spot cleaning using a mild detergent and air-drying them in the sun.
- Another way is to place them in the freezer wrapped in a plastic bag for 24 hours. This will help get rid of the dust mites, but you may still require to do any necessary spot cleaning.
Tips to Wash Pillows:
- Protect your pillows for longer using a protective cover. This will help protect your pillows from dirt, dust, germs, and all manner of unwanted stains.
- Make a reminder of when your pillows need to be washed again.
- Also, check whether your pillow need to be replaced. If you can fold your pillow in half and it stays in the same place, it needs to be replaced. But, if your pillow springs back, then it is fine and just require a washing or cleaning.
- You should replace your pillows once every two years.
- Make sure you wash your pillows 2-3 times in a year to get rid of the sweat, dander, bodily oils, and dust buildup.