Clean pillows are just as underrated as getting a good night's sleep. However, it's a little known fact that not all pillows are washable. While you may have seen your mother changing pillows and mattress covers, many of us don't know how to properly wash pillows. Typically, pillows are filled with materials such as cotton, foam, fiberfill, or feathers.

Similar to any other bedding, it is essential to wash pillows. While pillowcases aid in preventing the accumulation of allergens and dirt on pillows, they can only protect for a limited time. Eventually, sweat and oils from your skin can permeate the fibers of your pillowcase and penetrate the outer layer of your pillow, reaching the filling inside. Maintaining good hygiene practices entails washing your pillows at least once or twice a year, which also contributes to their durability.

When dust, oil, or dirt builds up on pillows, they tend to lose their luster and appear dull. As a result, it's important to consider washing them. However, maintaining them in this state may worsen the accumulation of dust mites, potentially causing severe health issues such as allergic reactions. To learn how to wash your pillows properly, keep reading!!!

Why you should clean your pillow

While not a pleasant thought, it's important to consider that when you rest your head on a pillow, the oils from your skin and hair, along with sweat and drool, can accumulate and form an unpleasant combination that is absorbed by the pillow material. The presence of unsightly yellow stains or discoloration on your bedding, which you rest your head on every night to sleep, can pose a problem. Even if you cover it up with a beautiful floral pillowcase, the issue remains and may lead to the growth of bacteria and mold or the accumulation of allergens.

According to LatestBedding, reducing the risk of dust and dust mite exposure in bedding, which can irritate sensitive airways, can be achieved by frequently fluffing up pillows and washing them every month. However, replacing pillows that show signs of wear and tear can also be beneficial. Did you know that dust mites thrive in your bedding as they feed on dead skin flakes? This is why it's important to wash your pillows regularly. Have you thought about doing laundry yet?

When Should You Wash Your Pillows?

If you're not sure about when to wash your pillows, we're here to provide you with a comprehensive answer. It's recommended to wash your pillows every six months, as they have a shorter lifespan compared to mattresses. It's important to keep track of when your pillows need a wash and when it's time to replace them with new ones.

How To Wash Pillows In A Washing Machine?

Most people are concerned about how to wash their pillows using a washing machine. Rest assured, using a washing machine is the easiest way to clean your pillows. If you have a top or front-load washing machine without an agitator (the spindle is usually located in the center of the machine), you're in luck. Such machines provide better cleaning and ensure minimal damage to your pillows during the wash cycle.

Some pillows may be able to withstand the agitation of a washing machine with an agitator, while others may require a gentler cycle or hand washing. Generally, using a gentle cycle can help to minimize the stress on your pillows and prevent them from getting damaged or losing their shape during the washing process. It's also a good idea to use a mild detergent and avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, which can be harsh on the fibers of your pillows.

How long will this take to clean?

Spot cleaning a pillow should typically take no longer than 30 minutes, not including drying time. However, if the stain is particularly stubborn and requires an overnight soak, it may take longer. It is recommended to spot clean pillows as frequently as necessary, in addition to more thorough cleanings. To clean a foam pillow cover, which shouldn't be washed with the filling, one wash cycle and some air-drying time should suffice. On the other hand, washing down and down alternative pillows in the washer and dryer can take a few hours, and it is essential to keep an eye on the drying process, especially when dealing with down pillows.

To clean small stains, attempt spot cleaning intermittently, rather than waiting for a full washing cycle, or before putting your pillow in the washing machine. If you have a foam pillow, the only way to clean it without removing the fill is by spot-cleaning the cover. To effectively remove stains, it is recommended that you follow the instructions specific to the stain remover you are using. However, you should apply the stain remover directly to the affected area, pinch the fabric on both sides of the stain, and gently rub the fabric together to ensure that the spot treatment penetrates the stain.

Most manufacturers and experts advise against washing foam pillows as they can alter their loft, damage the foam, promote mold growth, and even harm your washing machine and dryer if the shredded fill escapes. Therefore, it's recommended to wash only the covers to avoid any potential damage or harm.

How to take care of your pillows long-term

According to LatestBedding suggestions, it's recommended to use pillow protectors, even though they may not be the most comfortable for sleeping, as they can reduce the frequency of washing your pillows. To maintain the fluffiness of your foam pillows, you can either knead them once a week like a loaf of bread to let the shredded foam inside expand or put them in the dryer for 10 minutes without heat.

According to LatestBedding, it's advisable to use a dryer for both down and down alternative pillows. We advise customers to put their new pillow in the dryer for an hour on regular heat every three to four weeks to get rid of collected moisture and perspiration, which helps to maintain the pillow's fluffiness. In addition, for those with allergies, we suggest placing the pillow in the dryer on high heat for 20 minutes to eliminate dust mites.

However, there are various types of pillows suitable for different occasions, but many people may not realize that they can be washed. Nowadays, there are plenty of options available, from dry cleaning to using a washing machine. If you follow the washing instructions carefully, it can be a simple process to start with. Keeping a clean bed is important, and it's worth considering keeping your pillows clean too.