Should Pillows be Machine or Hand Washed?

Did you know that using a clean pillow lets you have a good night's rest? Much like any item of clothing, using your pillows every night calls for a regular washing schedule.

Besides washing your pillowcases, you also want to make sure to care for the pillow itself. To help your pillows last longer, you should also wash them at least two to four times per year. Here are ways on how to wash pillows using machine and hand. 

How to wash down and fiberfill pillows 

Tossing down and fiberfill pillows in the washing machine are the ways to go to refresh them. To keep the washer balanced, wash two pillows at a time. Best to wash them in either top- or front-load machines that have no agitator. 

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If your only choice is a top-loader with an agitator, be sure to place your pillows vertically in the tub to prevent them from getting damaged. Before you wash your pillows, take note to read its instruction manuals first to prolong its life. 

Follow this step-by-step guide: 

• Use warm water in a gentle cycle to wash your pillows. Add extra cold water for rinsing and then spin the cycle. 
• Use only a small amount of detergent. 
• On low heat, tumble dry the pillows while fluffing and turning them often. Toss a few dryer balls to keep your pillows from losing plump. Place them under the sun or a few hours to avoid leaving musty smells on your pillows. 

(Photo : Unsplash/E H)

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How to wash foam pillows

Even though memory foam pillows are dust mite resistant, you should still wash them regularly. However, you have to take note that you should not toss them into the washing machine. After reading the washing instructions, follow these steps to keep your foam pillows germ-free. 

• Following the care tag, wash your pillowcases accordingly. After tossing them into the machine, use hot water after you have selected a casual or normal cycle, then add detergent. 
• Vacuum your foam pillows on both sides to remove dust or dirt. For 20 minutes, tumble the pillows on the no-heat or air-only cycle in the dryer.
• Dip a cloth in a mild sudsy soap solution, then use it to spot clean any soiled areas you could find. Rinse lightly using a damp cloth because you could tear a wet foam easily. 
• Make sure that your pillows have been air-dried completely before using them again. 

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When to replace your pillows

Sooner or later, you would have to replace old and worn-out pillows. But when would you know that it is already time to head to the store? Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab director, Carolyn Forte, explained that if your pillows do not spring back after you have fold them, it is time for you to buy a new one. 

Apart from that, if your pillow still smells something funny after you have washed them, it is time to toss them away. You could use liners before covering your pillows with cases and wash them regularly so you could use them longer.