When was the last time you washed your pillows? Many overlook the importance of pillow hygiene, yet we spend hours with our faces pressed against them every night. Keeping your pillows clean is essential for a good night's sleep and overall health. However, washing pillows often raises concerns like clumping or damaging the material. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to wash pillows without clumping and share some pro tips.
Whether you're washing memory foam pillows, feather pillows, or polyester ones, the key is knowing the right techniques. So, grab your pillow, get cosy, and dive into the pillow care world!
Why Is It Important to Wash Your Pillows?
Washing pillowcases regularly is enough, but what about the pillows themselves? Over time, pillows accumulate sweat, oils, dust mites, and even dead skin cells. This can not only cause unpleasant smells but also trigger allergies. Have you ever woken up with a stuffy nose or itchy eyes? It could be your pillow crying out for a clean!
How Often Should You Wash Pillows?
Wondering how often you should wash your pillows? Ideally, pillows should be washed every six months. For those with allergies or who sweat a lot during the night, consider cleaning them every three months. If your pillow shows signs of stains or smells, it sure needs a wash sooner rather than later.
What Happens If You Don’t Wash Your Pillows?
Neglecting to wash your pillows can build up bacteria and allergens, affecting your health and sleep quality. Pillows that aren’t cleaned regularly may also lose their fluffiness and start clumping, making them uncomfortable to sleep on.
Now that we’ve established why clean pillows are essential let's explore how to wash them without ruining them!
How to Wash Different Types of Pillows?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to pillow care. The material of your pillow will determine the best washing method. Let's break it down for the most common pillow types.
How to Wash Memory Foam Pillows?
Memory foam pillows are tricky to wash, as they don’t do well in washing machines. If you’ve ever wondered, “How do I wash my memory foam pillow without damaging it?” here’s what you need to do:
- Spot cleaning: Use a mild detergent and a clean cloth to spot-clean any stains. Gently dab the area; don’t scrub too hard.
- Air drying: Memory foam should not be dried in the dryer. Instead, lay it flat on a clean surface and let it air dry completely.
- Disinfection tip: Sprinkle baking soda over your memory foam pillow, let it sit for a few hours to absorb moisture and odours, and vacuum it off.
How to Wash Feather Pillows?
Feather pillows are delicate, but they can be machine-washed. However, improper washing can lead to clumping. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a gentle cycle: Washing feather pillows in a washing machine is possible, but always choose a gentle cycle. Add a small amount of mild detergent, and use cold or warm water.
- Drying with tennis balls: Place a few clean balls or dryer balls in the dryer to dry feather pillows without clumping. This helps fluff the pillows and prevents the feathers from sticking together.
- Best way to wash feather pillows: To prevent mildew from forming, it's essential to ensure the pillow is fully dry after washing.
How to Wash Polyester Pillows?
Polyester pillows are relatively easy to care for. Here’s how to keep them fresh and fluffy:
- Machine wash: Polyester pillows can be washed in a top-loading washer. Set the machine to a gentle cycle with warm water and a small amount of detergent.
- Fluffing tip: After washing, add tennis balls to the dryer to prevent clumping and keep your polyester pillow fluffy.
How to Wash Pillows Without Clumping?
You're not alone if clumping is your main concern when washing pillows. Here are some foolproof tips for washing and drying pillows without causing lumps:
- Wash two at a time: This balances the washing machine and prevents your pillows from getting lopsided during the cycle.
- Avoid too much detergent: Overloading the machine with detergent can lead to residue build-up, contributing to clumping.
- Use warm or cool water: Hot water can cause certain pillow materials to break down or clump, so stick to warm or cool water for most types.
- How to keep pillows fluffy after washing: Add dryer balls or tennis balls to the dryer to keep them in shape.
How to Wash Pillows with Detergent and Softener?
As mentioned, it’s best to avoid softeners. But if you prefer to use detergent, make sure it’s mild. Here’s a step-by-step for washing pillows with detergent:
- Remove pillowcases and wash them separately. Moonlight bedding cushion covers and flat sheets are machine washable, making cleaning your entire bedding easy.
- Place the pillows in the washing machine. If you're using a top-loading washer, position them vertically to prevent them from getting tangled.
- Add a small amount of detergent.
- Set the washer to a gentle cycle with warm water.
- Dry the pillows with dryer balls or tennis balls to fluff them up.
How to Dry Pillows Without Clumping?
Drying is where things can go wrong if you’re not careful. If you’re wondering, “Can you put pillows in the dryer?” The answer is yes—but with caution.
- Low heat: Always dry pillows on low heat to avoid damaging the material.
- Use tennis balls: Adding tennis balls to the dryer prevents clumping and evenly distributes the filling.
- Air drying: If you prefer not to use a dryer, air drying is a safe alternative. Lay the pillows flat on a drying rack and rotate them occasionally.
How to Prevent Pillows from Going Flat After Washing?
One of the biggest issues after washing pillows is that they can lose their shape. To keep your pillows fluffy, fluff them up every few days. Pair them with soft blankets and bedding sets for added comfort – they make bedtime even cosier!
Washing Pillowcases and Bedding
While washing your pillows, don’t forget about the pillowcases and the rest of your bedding. Fitted sheets, curtains, and cushions from moonlight bedding can all be washed at home to keep your sleeping environment fresh and clean. For pillowcases, to avoid wrinkles, remove them from the dryer while they’re still slightly damp and smooth them out before air drying.
Hand Washing vs. Machine Washing
If your pillows are delicate or you're uncomfortable machine washing them, hand washing is a great option. Here’s how:
- Fill a large tub with lukewarm water and add a small detergent.
- Submerge the pillow and gently squeeze the water through.
- Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
- Air-dry the pillow on a flat surface.
Final Pillow Cleaning Tips
To wrap things up, here are some pillow-cleaning tips to ensure you get the best results:
- Best temperature to wash pillows: Use warm water for most pillow types.
- Pillow cleaning tips for allergies: If you suffer from allergies, use a hypoallergenic detergent and wash your pillows more frequently.
- How to remove pillow stains naturally: Baking soda and vinegar are natural, effective solutions for tackling tough stains.
Conclusion
Washing pillows doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Whether you’re washing memory foam, feather, or polyester pillows, following these steps will help you keep them clean, fluffy, and clump-free. Remember always to check the care label, avoid excess detergent, and use dryer balls to maintain the shape of your pillows. With proper care, your pillows will last longer, providing a comfortable and hygienic sleep environment. And while you're at it, don't forget to freshen up your cushions, curtains, and other bedding items from moonlight bedding for an all-around clean and cosy bedroom.
Happy cleaning!
FAQs
Can You Use Bleach on Pillows?
Many ask, “Can I use bleach on my pillows to remove stains?” The answer depends on the pillow material. For instance, bleach on memory foam or feather pillows can cause damage. However, you can use a mild bleach solution on synthetic pillows like polyester. Always check the care label before using bleach, and never use too much – less is more!
Should You Use Fabric Softener When Washing Pillows?
Fabric softeners may seem like a good idea, but they can coat your pillow with residue, making it less breathable. When considering, “Should I wash pillows with softener?” it’s best to skip it altogether. Instead, use a gentle detergent and avoid products that leave a film on the pillow fibres.
Can You Wash Pillows with Baking Soda?
Baking soda is a fantastic natural cleaner. If you’re dealing with tough stains or odours, sprinkle baking soda on your pillow before washing. It helps neutralise smells and lift grime. You can also mix some vinegar into the wash for added freshness – a great alternative to harsh chemicals.
