When it comes to bedding, you might be careful about cleaning your sheets and comforter, but do you wash your pillows too? Pillows can gather a lot of dead skin and dust mites, so it’s important to clean them just as well as the rest of your bedding. To help keep your pillows fresh, we’ll show you how to clean them both by hand and in the washing machine.
How Often Should You Wash Pillows?
Pillows should be cleaned at least every three to six months. However, some types, like latex and memory foam, can’t be washed in a machine and should be cleaned as needed.
How to Machine Wash Pillows
Most pillows, such as those filled with cotton, feathers, down, and fiberfill, can be washed in a machine using warm water on a gentle cycle. Always check the label for cleaning instructions first, since some pillows may have specific washing and drying recommendations.
- Take off any pillowcases or protectors.
- Put a little bit of natural detergent on any stains on the pillows.
- Put two pillows in the washing machine to keep it balanced during the wash.
- Add natural detergent and then 1/2 cup of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser.
- Select a gentle or delicate cycle and use cold water to keep the filling from clumping.
- After washing, take the pillows out of the washing machine and gently press out any extra water.
- Put the pillows in the dryer with a few tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff them up and keep their shape.
- Dry the pillows on a low heat setting to avoid damaging the filling.
- Check the pillows from time to time while they dry, and take them out of the dryer once they are fully dry.
- Once they’re dry, fluff the pillows to bring back their shape.
How to Hand-Wash Pillows
Some pillows, such as memory foam and latex, cannot be washed in a machine because the agitation is too harsh and could damage the padding. Instead, it’s recommended to clean these types of pillows by hand in a clean bathtub or basin.
- Take off any pillowcases or protectors from the pillows.
- Fill a clean bathtub or basin with enough lukewarm water to cover the pillows.
- Put a little natural detergent in the water, then add 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
- Stir the water to mix in the detergent, then put the pillows into the water.
- Gently press and squeeze the pillows, focusing on any stained spots. Use a soft brush for more detailed cleaning.
- Let the water out, then refill the basin with fresh water.
- Rinse the pillows well until all the soap is gone.
- After rinsing, gently squeeze the extra water out of the pillows. Don’t twist or wring them.
- Spread clean towels on a flat surface like a countertop or drying rack. Lay the pillows on the towels to air dry. Make sure the pillows are shaped correctly to keep their form.
- During the drying process, turn the pillows now and then to make sure they dry evenly.
How to Remove Odors From Pillows
If your pillows still smell after washing, use sunlight to get rid of the odors. Put the pillows in direct sunlight and fresh air for a few hours, turning them to expose all sides to the sun. If this doesn’t help, try sprinkling them with baking soda.
Sprinkle baking soda on the pillows and leave it for a few hours. Then shake off the extra baking soda and vacuum up the rest with a brush attachment.
How Often to Replace Pillows
Pillows should be replaced every one and a half to two years because they can collect bacteria and are used every day. This advice is supported by the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America, though some types of pillows may last longer.
How to Maintain Pillows
Use these tips to keep your pillows fresh between cleanings.
- Use pillowcases to shield your pillows from skin cells, bacteria, and debris.
- Periodically air out your pillows to get rid of odors.
- Don’t eat in bed and keep pets away from your bed and pillows.
- Wash or change pillowcases if you’re sick.
- Store pillows in a cool, dry place when not in use.