Pillows, like other fabrics in the house, also need to be washed to remove dust, sweat and grease buildup. While buying a new pillow may seem easier than washing it, washing your old pillow is actually easy! If your pillow is yellowish or hasn't been washed in more than 6 months, use one of the following methods for a quick clean. You'll sleep happier knowing you're sleeping on a fresh cloth!
Step
Method 1 of 2: Washing Cotton and Synthetic Pillows
Step 1. Remove it from the pillowcase
If you gave a pillowcase to protect your pillow, then take it off now. Some pillows made with covers that have zippers must also be removed and washed separately.
Step 2. Put the pillow in the washing machine
Don't worry, this method is safe for washing pillows. Try to wash two pillows at once so that your washing machine is balanced and your pillows are not tossed around too often.
Step 3. Add detergent
For a regular washing routine, add a spoonful of your regular detergent. To make your pillows whiter, add the following to your detergent: 1 cup of powdered dishwashing detergent, 1 cup of bleach, and 1/2 cup of borax.
Step 4. Start the wash cycle
Adjust the washing rules so that the hot water runs and goes through 2 rinse cycles. Then wait for the results!
Step 5. Put your pillow in the dryer
Place your pillow in the dryer and adjust the settings. If your pillow contains feathers, choose the 'air' setting. For synthetic pillows choose low heat.
Step 6. Dry your pillow
Take two tennis balls and place each in a clean white sock. Put the tennis balls in these socks in the dryer along with your pillow to make them puffy and reduce drying time.
Step 7. Check your pillow
When your dryer has finished its cycle, take and feel your pillow, checking for humidity. Kiss the pillow to check for moisture in the center. If your pillow doesn't feel dry yet, repeat the drying process and check again. If your pillow feels dry then your pillow is clean and ready!
Method 2 of 2: Washing Memory Foam Pillows
Step 1. Remove it from the pillowcase
If your pillow has a pillowcase, remove it before you wash it. Most memory foam pillows also have a protective layer that you should also remove. Pillows and covers must be washed separately in the washing machine.
Step 2. Fill the tub with water
Washing machines are known to be too powerful to wash memory foam pillows, so this type of pillow must be washed by hand. Fill a tub or bucket with warm water. You only need as much water as needed to soak the pillow.
Step 3. Add your detergent
For every pillow you wash, add a spoonful of liquid laundry detergent to the water. Mix with your hands to lather and spread evenly.
Step 4. Wash your pillow
Place the pillow in the water, and move it slightly to help the detergent soak into it. Massage and press with your hands to remove dirt and clean the outside.
Step 5. Rinse the pillow
Drain the pillow with clean water. Getting as much soap out as possible is very important, check for any residual suds after you rinse. Rinsing pillows may take longer than washing them.
Step 6. Dry the pillow
High heat can damage your memory foam pillow and cause it to crumble, so don't put your memory foam pillow in the dryer. Place the pillow on a clean white towel in a dry area. If possible let dry in the sun.
Step 7. Check the pillow
Memory foam pillows can retain water for a long time, because they are made of a sponge-like material. Make sure that there is no water left before you reuse it, otherwise your pillow will grow moldy.
Tips
- A sitting pillow can be cleaned in the same way as a sleeping pillow. Be sure to remove your pillowcase first to keep it safe. *Pillows should be washed 2-3 times a year to remove sweat buildup, body oil, dandruff and dust.
- Check your pillow to see if you need to replace it. If you fold your pillow in half and it stays that way, then your pillow is too old and needs to be replaced. If the pillow returns to its original shape then your pillow is still good and just needs to be washed. On average you should replace your pillow once every two years.
