How to Wash Pillows

Between dust mites, dust, dead skin cells and other particles, your pillows will get saturated with filth. Even when you launder your pillowcases regularly, these elements can penetrate through the pillowcase fibers and get embedded in the pillows.

The last thing you want is to lay your head on a dirty pillow at night. How can you clean your pillows without damaging the filling?

Importance of Washing Pillows Regularly

Dust mites are attracted to dead skin cells, dust and other particles that are commonly found in and on pillows. Dust mites and these other particles are common household allergens. They can cause red and itchy eyes, a stuffy nose, facial pressure, hives, a sore throat, fatigue and other symptoms.

For those with asthma or other respiratory conditions, resting on allergen-covered pillows can have significant consequences.

How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?

Regardless of how frequently pillows are used, they should be washed every three to six months. Seldom-used pillows, such as in a guest bedroom or stored on a closet shelf, are just as prone to accumulating dust and dust mites as pillows that are more frequently used.

Pillow protectors can minimize the accumulation in the pillows, but both the protectors and the pillows should still be washed regularly.

Can All Pillows Be Machine Washed?

Most, but not all, pillows can be washed in the washing machine. If your pillows are made out of memory foam or latex, they must be washed by hand. Pillows made out of fiberfill, cotton, down and feathers are typically safe to wash in the washing machine.

How to Wash Pillows Without Ruining Them?

The filling in pillows can be damaged by exposure to heat as well as by intense agitation in the washing machine. Always use cool water and the gentle cycle. Doing so minimizes clumping. In addition, heat from the dryer can damage the filling. Choose a low heat setting.

Step 1: Check the Care Label

Before washing your pillows by hand or in the washing machine, read the care label. The label may provide specific information about the recommended washing machine and dryer settings as well as the type of detergent.

Step 2: Pre-treat Stains and Odors

If your pillows are stained and stinky, you can pre-treat them before placing them in the washing machine. To do so, rub laundry detergent directly onto the stain before placing the pillows in the washing machine.

You can address odors by sprinkling them with baking soda and placing them in direct sunlight for several hours.

Step 3: Load the Washing Machine Properly

When the filling in your pillows is saturated with water, they will get very heavy. Because of this, it is critical to distribute weight evenly in the washing machine. Only wash two pillows at a time. Place them as evenly as possible around the inner perimeter of the wash basin.

Step 4: Selecting the Right Detergent and Settings

Rather than using a harsh laundry detergent, choose a natural detergent that will be easier on the filling. In addition, pour a half cup of white vinegar into the dispenser along with the detergent. Choose the cool water setting and the delicate or gentle wash cycle.

Step 5: Drying the Pillows Correctly

After pulling the pillows out of the washing machine, squeeze them as dry as you can. After putting them in the dryer, add a few wool dryer balls to control static. Dryer sheets often leave behind and subtle residue, so they are not preferred.

Choose the low heat setting. Before pulling them out of the dryer, ensure that they are completely dry. Any moisture remaining in the filling could result in mold growth.

Step 6: Fluffing and Maintaining Pillow Freshness

As soon as the pillows are done drying, fluff them to restore their softness and to remove any small clumps that developed. To do so, grab the pillow from both sides at the top. Slowly stretch the filling apart as you move across and down the pillow.

To maintain the pillows’ freshness after washing, place them in clean pillow protectors. In addition, launder your pillowcases and sheets on a weekly basis. Not eating in bed and keeping pets off your bed are also helpful.

When to Replace Old Pillows

As a rule of thumb, replace your old pillows every 18 to 24 months. At this age, pillow filling often has broken down or compressed to the point that the pillows are no longer as comfortable as they once were.

In addition, even when cleaned regularly, pillows can develop bacterial growth and cause illnesses.

You can get more life out of your pillows and many other items in your home when you keep them clean. Rather than trying to squeeze time into your busy schedule to make your home as clean and healthy as it should be, use cleaning services in Boston. To learn more about our services and book your first cleaning, contact us today.