Although it may not seem like it, pillows are an important part of everyday life. You use them to sleep, prop up your head when reading in bed, and even give yourself extra support when taking a nap. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure you wash them regularly and properly. From washing specific fabrics like cotton and silk to learning how often you should wash your pillows, this article is here to help you ensure that you’re washing pillows correctly!
Why Having Clean Pillows Is So Important
Having clean pillows can make a big difference – not only to the quality of your sleep but to your overall health. Your head rests on them night after night, and regularly washing and replacing pillows can help prevent dust mites, mold, and other allergens from building up while providing additional comfort.
And when your pillows are dirty, they can start to smell and look worn out, which doesn’t make for a restful sleep. So if you’re looking to improve your sleep quality, regularly washing your pillows is something you’ll want to keep in mind.
Down Pillow
Down pillows are great for comfort and adding a luxurious texture to your bedroom decor, but they can quickly become a mess if you don’t regularly clean them. Thankfully, you can follow an easy routine that will help keep your down-filled pillows in top condition. First, shake them out weekly to reduce dirt buildup and re-fluff the pillow. Then, once a month, check the manufacturer’s care tag for specific washing instructions regarding temperature, soaps, etc., then place your pillows into the washing machine on the gentle cycle with a mild detergent and cold water setting.
After they’ve gone through the wash cycle, squeeze out as much water as possible before transferring them to the dryer on a low heat setting, or air dry them naturally. If you have the time, break up lumps by hand while drying or alternate between dryer settings to make sure all sides get equal exposure to heat. Finally, finish by shaking out fluff particles and re-fluffing until you have reached desired softness.
Feather Pillow
Feather pillows are a great way to experience luxurious cushioning and comfort while you sleep, but they require special cleaning instructions to maintain quality. First, machine wash the pillow on its delicate cycle using cold water and a mild detergent, such as a specific feather pillow detergent or just a tiny cap of regular detergent. Add two bed pillows to balance the machine’s load for the best results.
Once it’s done in the washer, throw it in the dryer with no heat for several hours or until it’s completely dry. If you don’t have access to a washing machine or dryer, you can hand wash your feather pillow using detergent or shampoo and lay it outside in direct sunlight until it is thoroughly dried. Either method will help keep your feathers lofty and provide good support for many years!
