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How to Wash Pillows Properly
July 14, 2023
-
By
Sophia Grant
Did you know that your pillow is the ideal breeding ground for mites? Not only that but dirt, dust, saliva, and sweat can accumulate inside over time, causing unpleasant odors.
That’s why it’s so important to clean your pillows regularly – ideally, once every two to three months.
What’s the best way to wash pillows? Can you machine wash them on a gentle cycle? For the answers, be sure to keep reading. We’ll be going over the answers below.
Washing Pillows Made of Memory Foam
Memory foam pillows are designed to contour to the shape of your head and neck. They distribute weight evenly, which helps relieve pressure during sleep.
Are Memory Foam Pillows Machine Washable?
Memory foam pillows should never be put in the washing machine. The strong agitation of the wash cycle will break the inner padding.
Similarly, you never want to put it in the dryer—the heat will destroy its structure.
How to Wash Pillows Filled with Down or Feathers
Down/feather pillows are great in that they’re soft and fluffy. Here’s how to wash them.
Are Feather/Down Bed Pillows Machine Washable?
Yes, feather and down pillows can be put in the washing machine (as long as your washer is big enough to accommodate them).
Step 1: Add ACTIVE Laundry Enzyme Booster
Add one scoop of ACTIVE Laundry Enzyme Booster to the drum.
Step 2: Put the Pillows In
Put the pillows in the machine. We recommend putting two of them at a time – that will help keep things balanced. If necessary, squeeze them with your hands to remove the air.
Ideally, you want to use a washing machine without an agitator (ie. a front loader instead of a top loading machine). If that’s not possible, place the pillows vertically; that way, they’ll be less likely to get damaged during the cycle.
Step 3: Add ACTIVE Detergent
Add a scoop of ACTIVE Detergent. Don’t overdo it, otherwise, there may be buildup left on the pillow (pillows are bulky and will not rinse out as well as your clothes).
Step 4: Run a Wash Cycle
Set your washing machine to a gentle setting and run a wash cycle. Consider using hot water as that will help kill off any dust mites. Keep in mind, however, that the heat can damage the down and feathers over time so you may want to alternate between warm and cold water.
Step 5: Transfer Them to the Dryer
Take the pillows out once the cycle is finished. Using a towel, gently press out some of the water. Never wring or twist the pillows as that will only cause damage. After pressing out the excess moisture, put them in the dryer on the lowest setting.
For the best results, fluff them out by hand between each cycle; that will prevent clumps from forming. Using wool dryer balls can help as well.
Supply:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- ACTIVE Laundry Enzyme Booster
- Towels
- Dryer balls
Adding an extra rinse cycle will help remove any detergent that might be left on your pillow. You can also run an additional spin cycle.
ACTIVE Detergent
Deep clean your pillows to remove odor-causing sweat and body oils.
Hand Washing Down Pillows
If you want, you can also wash your down pillows by hand. Here’s how to do it.
Supplies:
- ACTIVE Detergent
- ACTIVE Laundry Enzyne Booster
- Water
- Dryer balls
Step 1:
Fill a large tub with hot water and add one scoop of ACTIVE Laundry Enzyme Booster .
Step 2:
Place the pillow flat in the tub and press down; it should be completely submerged in the solution.
Let it soak for one hour.
Step 3:
Re-fill the tub with warm water and add a bit of ACTIVE detergent. Don’t add too much, otherwise, it will be hard to rinse out later.
Agitate the water with your hands until the mixture becomes sudsy. Place the pillow in the detergent solution and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4:
Rinse thoroughly with water afterwards. For the best results, place the pillow directly under the faucet. Alternatively, you can re-fill the tub with water and let it soak.
Step 5:
After rinsing, place the pillow in the dryer and run it on low heat. We recommend adding a few dryer balls as that will help fluff up the pillows.
It’s also a good idea to fluff them up by hand between cycles (you’ll have to run the dryer more than once).
Deep Cleaning Your Memory Foam Pillow
The best way to wash your memory foam pillow is to use water. Never use detergent as it can actually damage the product.
Supplies:
- Water
Step 1:
Fill a large tub with lukewarm water, then place your pillow in.
Alternatively, you can let the water run over the top. If you’re doing that, make sure to move it around so that you’re rinsing all of the inner padding.
Step 2:
Gently press down on the pillow to remove excess water.
Then, let it air dry in a well-ventilated area. If possible, hang it outside in the sun; that will help to hasten the process.
Never put your foam pillow in the dryer – the high temperature will likely cause the foam to crumble.
Removing Stains From Memory Foam Pillows
Accidentally spilled a cup of tea over your pillow? Don’t worry—most liquid stains are easy to remove. You just need to know what to do.
Supplies:
- Clean towel
- ACTIVE Detergent
- Water
- Sponge
- Damp cloth
Step 1:
Using a clean cloth or towel, absorb the excess liquid. Avoid rubbing the area as that’ll only spread the mess further.
Step 2:
Create a soapy solution by mixing a bit of ACTIVE Detergent with water.
Make sure not to add too much detergent though, otherwise, you’ll end up with residue on the pillow.
Step 3:
Wet a sponge with the detergent solution and use it to gently clean the stained area with a circular motion.
Finally, wipe off the soap with a clean, damp cloth. For the best results, allow the pillow to dry naturally.
You can also bring the stained pillow to a dry cleaners.
Tips to Keep Your Pillows Clean & Odor Free
Here are a few things that will help keep your pillows clean.
Wash Your Pillows Frequently
Don’t wait until your pillows are grungy before washing them. Make a habit of washing them routinely – that will prevent oils, dust mites, and odors from building up.
Go to Bed Clean
This goes without saying but you want to go to bed clean. In other words, don’t jump into the sheets after a long day outside – the dust, dirt, and grime from your clothes will transfer onto your bed, including the pillow.
Protect Pillows with a Pillow Protector
Always use pillow covers; they will protect your pillow from stains, odors, and dead skin cells.
Even if the pillow cover does get dirty, you can wash it easily without having to deal with the actual pillow (they will buy you more time between each full-on cleaning)!
Avoid Sleeping With Your Pet
As much as you love your dog or cat, avoid sleeping with them (especially if they have a habit of going on your pillow).
If they must join you, have them sleep at the foot of the bed.
After all, you never know what might be in their fur—the last thing that you want is for that something to transfer onto your pillow!
Washing Bed Pillows – FAQs
How do you wash down alternative pillows?
Down alternative pillows are less finicky than actual down pillows and can be machine washed with cool or warm water with a gentle laundry detergent, such as the one by ACTIVE. That will get rid of odors and keep your pillows fresh.
Can you clean pillows with baking soda?
Baking soda can be used to deodorize your pillows. Start by removing the pillow case. Sprinkle a liberal amount of baking soda over the pillow and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes before vacuuming away the powder.
When should I replace my old pillow with a new pillow?
As a general rule, you want to replace pillows once every one to two years.
What’s the best way to spot clean pillows?
Dissolve a bit of ACTIVE detergent in cool water to create a soapy mixture. Dip a clean cloth into the solution and use it to blot the stain on the pillow.
How can I protect my pillows from dust mites?
Using a pillow case will protect your pillow from mites.
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Sophia Grant
Sophia Grant brings her extensive knowledge of laundry and clothing care to the masses with her intensive cleaning guides. Her thorough understanding of fabrics, detergents, and washing techniques helps readers master the art of maintaining their wardrobe. Sophia's advice ensures that anyone can achieve professional-level results at home, keeping their garments looking pristine and lasting longer.
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