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How to wash pillows? Safe cleaning tips

Pillows are often overlooked in the laundry routine, but they accumulate dust mites, sweat, skin cells, and allergens just like mattresses. Regularly washing your pillows helps ensure a healthier and more comfortable night’s sleep.

Why wash pillows regularly?

  • Allergen Reduction: Pillows are a prime breeding ground for dust mites, a common allergen. Washing removes these microscopic creatures and their waste.
  • Odor Elimination: Sweat and body oils can lead to unpleasant odors. Washing freshens pillows and eliminates these smells.
  • Hygiene: Removes dirt, skin cells, and any makeup or hair product residue.
  • Maintain Loft & Shape: For certain pillow types, washing can help restore their fluffiness and original shape, extending their lifespan.

Check labels & choose clean method

Always check the care label on your pillow first. This will tell you the recommended washing method and temperature. Most synthetic and down/feather pillows are machine-washable, but foam and buckwheat pillows require different care.

How to wash pillows

Machine-washable pillows

Most synthetic (polyester fiberfill) and down/feather pillows can be machine-washed.

  • Use a large-capacity washing machine if possible to allow for proper agitation and rinsing.
  • Wash two pillows at a time to balance the load and ensure thorough cleaning and rinsing.

Hand-wash instructions

Memory foam, latex foam, and buckwheat hull pillows are generally not suitable for machine washing. Water can damage the foam or the hulls.

  • For foam pillows: Spot clean visible stains with a mild detergent and a damp cloth. Do not submerge foam pillows.
  • For buckwheat pillows: Empty the hulls into a dry bucket or container. Wash the fabric casing according to its label. Once the casing is dry, return the hulls.

Washing step-by-step

For machine-washable pillows (synthetic, down/feather):

  1. Remove Pillowcases: Take off all pillowcases and protectors. Wash these separately.
  2. Load Washer: Place two pillows in the washing machine to balance the load.
  3. Detergent: Use a small amount (about 1/4 of the usual amount) of mild liquid detergent. Too much detergent can leave residue.
  4. Wash Cycle: Select the gentle or delicate cycle with warm water for synthetic pillows, or cool/cold water for down/feather pillows to protect the delicate feathers.
  5. Extra Rinse: Add an extra rinse cycle to ensure all soap residue is thoroughly removed. This is crucial for preventing mildew and maintaining fluffiness.

Drying tips: tumble vs air-dry

Proper drying is essential to prevent mildew and restore pillow loft.

  • Tumble Dry (Synthetic & Down/Feather):
    1. Place the pillows in the dryer on a low heat or air-fluff setting. High heat can damage synthetic fibers and make down brittle.
    2. Add a few dryer balls (or clean tennis balls in socks) to the dryer. These will help fluff the pillows, prevent clumping, and speed up drying time.
    3. Dry for several cycles, checking frequently. It can take 2-4 hours, or even longer, for pillows to dry completely.
    4. Crucial: Ensure pillows are completely dry inside and out before using them or putting them back on the bed. Any residual moisture can lead to mildew and unpleasant odors. Feel for any damp spots or clumps.
  • Air-Dry (Foam & Latex):
    1. Foam and latex pillows should never be put in a dryer, as high heat can damage them.
    2. Place them on a clean, flat surface in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors on a sunny day.
    3. Flip them periodically to ensure even drying. This can take 24 hours or longer.

When to replace pillows

Even with regular washing, pillows don’t last forever. It’s generally recommended to replace pillows every 1-2 years. Signs it’s time for a new one include:

  • Lumps or Flatness: The pillow has lost its loft and feels lumpy or flat.
  • Permanent Stains: Stubborn stains that won’t come out.
  • Persistent Odors: Unpleasant smells that linger after washing.
  • Neck Pain: You wake up with neck pain or stiffness.
  • The “Fold Test”: For synthetic pillows, fold it in half. If it doesn’t spring back to its original shape, it’s time for a new one.

Maintenance between washes

  • Use Pillow Protectors: Always use zippered pillow protectors underneath your pillowcases. These provide an extra barrier against sweat, dust mites, and allergens and are much easier to wash.
  • Fluff Daily: Fluff your pillows daily when making your bed to help maintain their shape and loft.
  • Air Out: Occasionally, air your pillows outside on a sunny, breezy day to refresh them.

Keep your pillows fresh and clean without the hassle! Amazing Maids offers comprehensive laundry and bedding care services. Request your free quote today!