How to Wash Pillows Properly for a Fluffy Finish

Knowing how to wash pillows is essential for maintaining a restful sleep. Over time, pillows can become stained and soiled from body oils, dead skin cells, and hair products, which can attract dust mites. Regular cleaning not only keeps your pillows looking fresh but also extends their lifespan and improves your overall sleep quality. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to wash every type of pillow for a fluffy finish.

Machine-Washing Pillows

Suitable for: Feather down, polyester fiberfill

1. Pre-Treat Stains: Begin by removing pillowcases and any covers. Inspect the pillows for visible stains such as blood, makeup, or other spots. Dab a small amount of enzyme-based stain remover or a good-quality detergent on the stains and work it in with a soft-bristled brush. Allow the cleaner to sit for at least 15 minutes before washing.

2. Select Washer Settings: Use cold or warm water and select the gentle cycle. Choose the highest water level available and add only a small amount of detergent (about two teaspoons).

3. Balance the Load: To keep the washer balanced, it's essential to wash two pillows at a time. If you are using a top-load washer with a center agitator, be sure to add some white bath towels to help balance the load.

4. Extra Rinse: Once the cycle is complete, run the pillows through an extra rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is thoroughly rinsed out.

5. Drying: Remove the pillows from the washer and gently fluff the filling. Place the pillows in the dryer on low or medium heat, adding wool dryer balls or clean tennis balls to help break apart any clumps in the filling. Stop the dryer every 15 minutes to fluff the pillows by hand. Alternatively, you can air-dry the pillows by placing them in a well-ventilated area and turning them frequently to ensure even drying.

Hand-Washing Pillows

Suitable for: Latex, memory foam, gel-infused memory foam

1. Pre-Treat Stains: Remove pillowcases and any covers. Spot-clean stains with enzyme-based stain remover or a good-quality detergent and a soft-bristled brush. Allow the cleaner to sit for at least 15 minutes.

2. Mix Washing Solution: Ensure the bathtub is sparkling clean, then fill it with lukewarm water and about two teaspoons of gentle detergent. There should be enough water to fully submerge the pillows.

3. Agitate Pillows: Submerge the pillows in the soapy water and allow them to soak for about 10 minutes. Then, knead the pillows gently for about 5 minutes to move the cleaning solution through the filling.

4. Rinse Well: Drain the soapy water and refill the tub with cool water. Submerge the pillows and knead them for another 5 minutes to remove the suds. Drain and refill the tub with clean water several times until no more suds appear. Gently squeeze the pillows to remove the water, but do not wring them.

5. Absorb Moisture: Use thick, heavy bath towels to wrap the pillows and absorb as much water as possible. Down and polyester-filled pillows can be fluffed and then tossed in the dryer. Foam pillows should be placed flat on a ventilated surface away from direct heat and sunlight. Allow plenty of time for drying, as it could take a full day.

Removing Odors from Pillows

Over time, pillows can develop unpleasant odors. Here are a few tips to keep your pillows smelling fresh:

• Fabric Refresher: Spritz the pillow with a fabric refresher or sprinkle one side of the entire pillow generously with baking soda. Allow the baking soda to sit for at least an hour before vacuuming it away using the upholstery brush attachment. Flip the pillow over and repeat.

• Stain Removal: To tackle yellow stains caused by body soil and sweat, mix a paste of baking soda and lemon juice or baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the stained areas and let it sit for a few hours before washing.

Washing Other Types of Pillows

Different types of pillows require specific care to maintain their quality and fluffiness:

• Feather and Down: Both types of filling can be machine-washed or hand-washed. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can coat the down and reduce the pillow's fluffiness.

• Wool: Hand-wash wool pillows in cool water with a gentle detergent. Do not use oxygen-based bleach to treat stains or whiten the pillows, as it can cause the wool to deteriorate.

• Throw Pillows: If the cover is not removable, only spot-clean the pillow. Depending on the type of filling, throw pillow inserts can be hand-washed or machine-washed.

Tips to Keep Pillows Clean Longer

• Use Protective Covers: Always use a protective cover in addition to the pillowcase to prevent the build-up of dust and dust mites.

• Change Pillowcases Weekly: Change the pillowcase at least once a week, more often if you are ill or sweaty. Wash the protective cover at least once a month.

• Avoid Wet Hair: Never sleep on a pillow with wet hair, as this can promote mold growth.

• Tumble Dry Regularly: Place pillows in a tumble dryer on the air cycle for 10 minutes to help remove dust.

• Vacuum Foam Pillows: Thoroughly vacuum foam pillows each time you change bed linen to remove dead skin cells, dust mites, and other allergens.

When to Replace Pillows

Even with regular washing, pillows will eventually lose their support and fluffiness. Replace pillows if they no longer bounce back after folding them in half or if they do not spring back and fluff up after kneading or massaging.

Conclusion

Maintaining clean and fluffy pillows is crucial for a good night's sleep and overall hygiene. By following these washing and care tips, you can extend the life of your pillows and ensure they remain comfortable and supportive. Regular cleaning, proper stain treatment, and correct washing techniques will keep your pillows in top condition, providing you with the restful sleep you deserve. For more cleaning and organizing tips, sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest hacks, expert advice, and more!

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