When it comes to creating a clean and comfortable sleep sanctuary, you likely prioritize washing your sheets and comforter. But are you giving your pillows the same level of attention? Pillows accumulate a surprising amount of dead skin cells, dust mites, and oils, making regular cleaning just as crucial as washing other bedding items. While cleaning sheets might seem straightforward, knowing How To Wash Pillows properly doesn’t need to be a daunting task.
To help you keep your pillows fresh, we’re sharing expert-backed tips on how to wash pillows effectively, both by machine and by hand, ensuring they remain supportive and hygienic for restful nights.
Why Washing Your Pillows Matters
Beyond just general cleanliness, washing your pillows is vital for your health and well-being. Over time, pillows become breeding grounds for dust mites and allergens, thriving on the cozy environment and feasting on dead skin cells. This buildup can significantly impact your sleep quality and trigger allergies or respiratory issues. Washing your pillows regularly helps to eliminate these unwanted guests, along with accumulated body oils and sweat, contributing to a healthier sleep environment and fresher feeling pillows.
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
Aim to wash your pillows every three to six months as a general rule, according to cleaning experts like Brian Sansoni from the American Cleaning Institute. However, the ideal frequency can depend on your individual circumstances. If you experience allergies, sweat heavily during sleep, or have pets that share your bed, you might consider washing your pillows more frequently. It’s also important to note that certain types of pillows, such as latex and memory foam, require hand washing and should be cleaned as needed rather than on a strict schedule.
Machine Washing Pillows: Step-by-Step Guide
The good news is that many common pillow types, including those filled with cotton, down, feathers, and fiberfill, are machine washable. However, before you begin, always check the care label for specific instructions from the manufacturer. Alicia Sokolowski, President and co-CEO of AspenClean, emphasizes the importance of reading labels, as some pillows may have unique washing and drying recommendations.
Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, gather these essential materials:
- Natural detergent
- White vinegar
- Dryer balls (or clean tennis balls)
Step-by-Step Machine Washing Instructions
Follow these simple steps to machine wash your pillows effectively:
- Remove Pillowcases and Protectors: Begin by removing pillowcases and any pillow protectors. These should be washed separately, ideally more frequently than the pillows themselves.
- Pre-treat Stains: Inspect your pillows for any visible stains. Pre-treat these areas by applying a small amount of natural detergent directly to the stain. Gently rub it in and let it sit for a few minutes before washing.
- Load Pillows into Washing Machine: To maintain balance in your washing machine during the cycle, wash two pillows at a time. Distribute them evenly in the drum.
- Add Detergent and White Vinegar: Add natural detergent to your detergent dispenser as you normally would for a small load. In addition, pour ½ cup of white vinegar into the dispenser. White vinegar acts as a natural fabric softener, helps to remove odors, and can boost the cleaning power of your detergent.
- Select Gentle Cycle and Cold Water: Choose the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine. Use cold water to prevent the pillow filling from clumping together and to protect the fabric.
- Remove and Squeeze Excess Water: Once the wash cycle is complete, carefully remove the pillows from the washing machine. Gently squeeze out any excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the pillows, as this can damage the filling.
- Transfer to Dryer with Dryer Balls: Place the pillows in your dryer along with a couple of dryer balls or clean tennis balls. Dryer balls and tennis balls help to fluff up the pillows as they dry, preventing the filling from becoming flat and ensuring they retain their shape.
- Dry on Low Heat: Set your dryer to a low heat setting. High heat can damage the pillow filling, especially down and feather fillings. Low heat ensures gentle and thorough drying.
- Check for Dryness Periodically: Drying pillows can take time, especially thicker ones. Check the pillows periodically throughout the drying process. They may require multiple cycles to dry completely. Remove them from the dryer when they are fully dry to prevent mildew.
- Fluff and Reshape: Once the pillows are completely dry, remove them from the dryer and fluff them vigorously to restore their shape and loft.
Hand Washing Pillows: A Gentle Approach
For pillows made of memory foam or latex, machine washing is not recommended. The agitation of a washing machine can be too harsh and can break down these materials. Instead, hand washing is the gentler and more appropriate method. Alicia Sokolowski from AspenClean recommends using a clean bathtub or basin for hand washing foam and latex pillows.
What You’ll Need
Gather these materials for hand washing:
- Large basin or bathtub
- Natural detergent
- White vinegar
- Soft cleaning brush
- Clean towels
- Dryer balls or tennis balls (optional, for fluffing after drying if applicable to the pillow type)
Hand Washing Steps
Follow these steps for hand washing your pillows:
- Remove Pillowcases and Protectors: As with machine washing, start by removing pillowcases and pillow protectors.
- Fill Basin with Lukewarm Water: Fill a clean bathtub or large basin with enough lukewarm water to fully submerge your pillows.
- Add Detergent and White Vinegar: Add a small amount of natural detergent to the water, followed by ½ cup of white vinegar.
- Submerge and Agitate Pillows: Gently agitate the water to mix in the detergent and vinegar. Place the pillows into the water, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Squeeze and Brush Stains: Gently squeeze and press the pillows in the water to allow the soapy water to penetrate the filling. Pay extra attention to any stained areas. Use a soft cleaning brush to gently scrub at stubborn stains.
- Drain Soapy Water and Rinse: Drain the soapy water from the basin. Refill the basin with clean water.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the pillows thoroughly in clean water, gently squeezing and pressing them to remove all traces of detergent. Repeat the rinsing process until the water runs clear and you are sure all detergent is washed out.
- Press Out Excess Water: After rinsing, gently press out as much excess water as possible from the pillows. Again, avoid wringing or twisting, which can damage the pillow material.
- Air Dry on Towels: Lay clean towels on a flat surface, such as a countertop or drying rack. Place the pillows on the towels to air dry. Reshape the pillows as needed to help them maintain their form while drying.
- Rotate for Even Drying: During the air drying process, rotate and flip the pillows occasionally to ensure even drying on all sides. Air drying can take longer than machine drying, so be patient and ensure pillows are completely dry before use.
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Alt text: Freshly laundered pillows and comforters are neatly arranged on a bed, showcasing the cleanliness achieved through proper washing techniques for bedding.
Banishing Odors: Natural Deodorizing Techniques
If your pillows retain any lingering odors after washing, sunlight and baking soda are your natural allies. According to Sokolowski, “Place the pillows in direct sunlight and fresh air for a few hours, flipping them to expose all sides to the sun.” Sunlight is a natural deodorizer and can help to eliminate stubborn smells.
If sunlight isn’t enough, baking soda is another effective odor absorber. Simply sprinkle baking soda generously over the pillows and let it sit for a few hours, or even overnight. Then, shake off the excess baking soda and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove any remaining residue.
When to Say Goodbye: Pillow Replacement Guidelines
Even with regular washing, pillows have a limited lifespan. Kathy Cohoon, Director of Franchise Operations of Two Maids, recommends replacing pillows every 1.5 to 2 years maximum, due to the accumulation of bacteria and daily use. This timeframe is also supported by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. While some high-quality pillows may last longer, regular replacement ensures optimal hygiene and support.
Keeping Pillows Fresh: Maintenance Tips
To extend the freshness of your pillows between washes, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Use Pillowcases and Pillow Protectors: Always use pillowcases to protect your pillows from direct contact with skin cells, oils, and bacteria. Consider using pillow protectors underneath pillowcases for an extra layer of defense.
- Air Out Pillows Regularly: Periodically air out your pillows by placing them outside in fresh air and sunlight for a few hours. This helps to eliminate odors and refresh the filling.
- Avoid Eating in Bed and Keep Pets Off Pillows: Prevent food crumbs and pet dander from accumulating on your pillows by avoiding eating in bed and keeping pets off the bed and pillows.
- Wash Pillowcases When Sick: If you are sick, wash your pillowcases more frequently to prevent the spread of germs.
- Store Pillows Properly: When not in use, store pillows in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place to prevent moisture buildup and mildew.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can you wash polyester pillows?
Yes, polyester pillows are typically machine washable. However, always check the manufacturer’s care instructions on the label first for specific guidance.
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How to remove odor from pillows without washing?
You can remove odors from pillows without washing by sprinkling them with baking soda, letting it sit for a few hours or overnight, then shaking off the excess and vacuuming.
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How many pillows can I wash at once?
It is generally recommended to wash two pillows at a time in a washing machine to maintain balance during the wash cycle.
By following these comprehensive guidelines on how to wash pillows, you can ensure your bedding remains clean, fresh, and supportive, contributing to a healthier and more restful sleep environment. Regularly washing and maintaining your pillows is a simple yet significant step towards better hygiene and overall well-being.
