A good night’s sleep is essential for our well-being and the condition of our pillows can greatly impact our sleep quality. Pillows accumulate sweat, body oils, dust mites and allergens over time, making regular cleaning a must. In this article, we will dive into the proper cleaning of pillows, ensuring that you have a clean and comfortable sleep.
See also: How to power wash your home?
Step-by-step guide to washing pillows
Gather your supplies
- Mild liquid detergent
- Bleach (for white pillows)
- Washing machine
- Dryer or drying rack
- Tennis balls or dryer balls (optional)
Check the care label
Read the care label on your pillows to ensure they are machine washable. Some pillows may require dry cleaning or spot cleaning only.
Pre-treat stains
If your pillows have stains, apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes before proceeding.
Load the washing machine
Place two pillows in the washing machine to balance the load. Using a mild liquid detergent, add the appropriate amount according to the product label.
Choose the right cycle
Select a gentle cycle with warm water. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the pillow fibres. If your white pillows have yellowed, consider adding bleach to restore their brightness.
Rinse thoroughly
After the wash cycle is complete, run an extra rinse cycle to ensure that all the detergent is removed.
Drying process
Place your pillows in the dryer with tennis balls or dryer balls to prevent clumping. Use a low heat setting to avoid damaging the pillow’s filling. For feather or down pillows, use a no-heat or air-only setting.
Fluff and enjoy
Once your pillows are dry, give them a good fluff to distribute the filling evenly. Your pillows are now clean, fresh and ready to provide you with a good night’s sleep.
Tips for cleaning pillows
- Frequency: Aim to wash your pillows every 6 months or more frequently if you have allergies or sweat excessively.
- Pillow protectors: Consider using pillow protectors to shield your pillows from stains, sweat and allergens, prolonging their lifespan.
- Sun and air: Occasionally expose your pillows to sunlight and fresh air to naturally eliminate moisture and odours.
- Fluff daily: Give your pillows a gentle fluff daily to maintain their shape and prevent the filling from becoming lumpy.
FAQs
Can I wash foam pillows in the machine?
Foam pillows should not be submerged in water. Instead, spot-clean them with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
How often should I replace my pillows?
On average, pillows should be replaced every 1 to 2 years, depending on their quality and usage.
Can I wash pillows with embellishments?
Pillows with embellishments, like sequins or beads, are best hand washed to prevent damage.
What is the best way to dry feather pillows?
Dry feather pillows on a low heat setting with dryer balls to ensure they don’t clump together.
How do I freshen up pillows between washes?
To freshen up pillows, sprinkle them with baking soda, let them sit for a few hours, then vacuum it off.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |