How to Clean Your Pillows? Easy and Effective Tips
Pillows are one of those bedroom essentials that often get overlooked when it comes to regular cleaning. But trust us, washing them can make a world of difference in your sleep quality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to wash pillows, whether they’re made of memory foam, feather, or synthetic materials. Plus, we’ll give a shout out to Flip, where you can find all your cleaning supplies!
How Often Should You Wash Pillows?
Washing pillows might not be on your regular to-do list, but it should be! Ideally, you should be washing pillows every three to six months. This helps eliminate the buildup of sweat, dead skin cells, and those pesky dust mites. If you or your family members sweat a lot, eat in bed, or let pets on the bed, you might need to wash them even more frequently.
How to Machine Wash Pillows
Believe it or not, most pillows, including those filled with cotton, feathers, down, fiberfill, and bamboo, can simply be popped into the washing machine. However, always check the care label for any special instructions. When washing bamboo pillows, remember that they may require a gentle touch to preserve their natural qualities.
To machine wash pillows:
- Remove pillowcases or protectors.
- Pre-treat any stains with a small amount of mild detergent.
- Place two pillows in the washing machine to help balance the load.
- Add a mild detergent and opt for a gentle cycle with warm or cold water.
- After washing, gently squeeze out excess water.
How to Hand-Wash Pillows
Not all pillows are created equal, and some, like memory foam and latex, need a little extra love. These shouldn’t go in the washing machine since the agitation could damage the foam.
To hand-wash these types of pillows:
- Remove pillowcases or protectors.
- Fill a clean bathtub or basin with lukewarm water.
- Add a mild detergent and a half cup of white vinegar to the water.
- Submerge the pillows and gently squeeze to help the detergent penetrate.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all the soap is gone.
- Press out the excess water carefully, avoiding any wringing.
How to Remove Odors from Pillows
Got a smelly pillow? No problem! You can easily freshen it up with natural remedies like sunlight or baking soda. This method is effective for all types of pillows, including goose down pillows.
To remove odors:
- Place pillows in direct sunlight for a few hours.
- For a deeper clean, sprinkle them with baking soda and let it sit for a couple of hours.
- Shake off the baking soda and use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove any residue.
How to Dry Pillows
Drying is a crucial step when washing pillows. Improper drying can lead to mold and mildew, which nobody wants!
To dry pillows:
- Use a low heat setting on your dryer.
- Add a couple of dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help fluff the pillows and prevent clumping.
- Check periodically to ensure they’re completely dry.
If you prefer to air dry:
- Lay the pillows flat on a clean towel.
- Rotate them occasionally to ensure even drying.
How Often to Replace Pillows
Even with regular washing, pillows don’t last forever. Most should be replaced every one to two years. If your pillow has become lumpy or doesn’t spring back to its original shape, it’s time to let it go.
How to Maintain Pillows
Keeping pillows clean between washes is simpler than you might think. Use cotton pillow protectors to shield them from sweat, body oils, and other debris. Wash pillowcases weekly along with your sheets and air out your pillows regularly to keep them fresh.
Subtly work in a visit to Flip, your go-to store for cleaning supplies, to find everything you need to keep your pillows in tip-top shape. With the right care, you’ll enjoy fresh, fluffy pillows for a good night’s sleep!
