You may not think about it often, but your pillows need to be washed on a regular basis. Just like any other item in your home, they can collect dust, dirt, and allergens over time. Not to mention, if you sleep with your makeup on, your pillowcase is likely stained. While you can always take your pillows to the dry cleaner, this can be costly and time-consuming. Plus, it’s not always necessary to clean them as often as you might think. Here are 5 tips for washing pillows that will help you keep them clean and fresh all year round.
Why You Should Wash Your Pillows
If you don’t wash your pillows regularly, they can become home to dust mites, bacteria, and even mold. Not only is this unsanitary, but it can also trigger allergies and asthma. Washing your pillows once every six months will help keep them clean and fresh.
Here’s how to wash pillows:
Removing the pillowcases and washing them in hot water.
Wash the pillows themselves in hot water.
Add a cup of vinegar to the washing machine to help kill bacteria.
Dry the pillows on high heat to kill any remaining bacteria.
1. How Often to Wash Your Pillows
Pillows should be washed at least once every six months to keep them clean and free of dust mites, bacteria, and other allergens. If you have allergies or asthma, you may need to wash your pillows more often.
To wash your pillows, remove the pillowcases and wash them in hot water with a mild detergent. Wash the pillows themselves in cool water with a mild detergent. To fluff them up, put them in the dryer on low heat for about 20 minutes.
2. What Type of Pillowcase to Use
If you have a pillow made of natural materials, such as down or feathers, use a pillowcase made of cotton. If your pillow is filled with synthetic materials, such as polyester fiberfill, use a pillowcase made of polyester.
3. The Best Way to Wash Your Pillows
If you’ve never washed your pillows before, now is the time! Pillows can collect a lot of dust, dirt, and oil from your skin, so it’s important to wash them regularly to keep them clean and fresh. Here’s how to wash your pillows the right way:
1. Start by removing all of the pillowcases and decorative covers from your pillows.
2. Before washing, check the care labels on your pillows to see if they can be machine-washed. If not, you’ll need to wash them by hand.
3. If your pillows are machine-washable, add them to your washing machine along with a mild detergent and a couple of old towels (this will help protect them from damage in the washing machine). Wash on a gentle cycle in warm or hot water.
4. Once they’re done washing, dry your pillows in the dryer on a low or medium heat setting. You can also air-dry them if you prefer.
5. Finally, fluff up your pillows and put the pillowcases back on. Enjoy your clean, fresh pillows!
4. How to Dry Your Pillows
If your pillows are starting to look a little flat, it might be time to dry them. Here’s how:
1. Place your pillows on a clothesline or drying rack in a sunny spot.
2. Let them dry for several hours, flipping them over periodically so they dry evenly.
3. Once they’re completely dry, fluff them up and put them back on your bed!
5. Storing Your Pillows
When it comes to storing your pillows, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure that they are completely dry before you store them. If they are even slightly damp, they could mildew or mold. Second, if you plan on storing them for more than a few months,Invest in some good pillow covers or storage bags to keep them dust-free and protected from insects.
Pillows can take up a lot of space, so it’s important to choose a storage option that will work for you. If you have the room, consider storing them in a linen closet or on a shelf in your bedroom. If space is tight, try storing them underneath your bed or in another out-of-the-way spot. Just make sure that wherever you store them, it’s cool and dry.
Conclusion
Pillows are an important part of a good night’s sleep, so it’s important to keep them clean. With these tips, you can ensure that your pillows stay fresh and comfortable for years to come. Do you have any other tips for washing pillows? Let us know in the comments below!