How to Clean Pillows

Have you ever thought about how often you clean your pillows? Most of us probably don’t. But it’s just as important to clean our pillows as it is to clean our sheets and blankets. After all, we spend a significant amount of time sleeping on them.

Dirty pillows can be a breeding ground for bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. These can cause a variety of health problems, including:

• Respiratory issues: Sneezing, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing
• Skin problems: Acne, eczema, and rashes
• Allergies: Asthma, allergic rhinitis, and conjunctivitis

In addition to health concerns, dirty pillows can also affect the quality of your sleep. When your pillows are filled with dirt and grime, they can become uncomfortable and even painful.

Common Pillow Materials

There are many different types of pillow materials available. Some of the most common include:

• Feathers: Feathers are a popular choice for pillows because they are soft and supportive. However, they can be difficult to clean.
• Down: Down is a type of feather that is softer and more insulating than regular feathers. It is also more expensive.
• Polyester: Polyester pillows are a good budget option. They are durable and easy to care for.
• Latex: Latex pillows are made from natural rubber. They are hypoallergenic and provide good support.
• Memory foam: Memory foam pillows conform to the shape of your head and neck. They are also hypoallergenic.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pillows?

The frequency with which you should clean your pillows depends on a few factors, including:

• How often you sweat: If you sweat a lot while you sleep, you’ll need to clean your pillows more often.
• Whether you have pets: Pets can shed hair and dander on your pillows, which can make them dirty faster.
• Whether you have allergies: If you have allergies, you’ll need to clean your pillows more often to avoid allergens.

As a general rule, you should clean your pillows every 6 months. However, if you notice any signs that your pillows are dirty, such as yellowing or a musty smell, you should clean them sooner.

Cleaning Pillows by Material

Cleaning Feather and Down Pillows

Cleaning feather and down pillows can be a bit tricky. However, it’s important to clean them regularly to prevent the buildup of dust mites and other allergens.

Here are a few tips for cleaning feather and down pillows:

• Hand washing: If your pillows are not too dirty, you can hand wash them in a bathtub. Fill the tub with warm water and a gentle detergent. Submerge the pillows and gently squeeze them to remove dirt and grime. Rinse thoroughly and allow the pillows to air dry.
• Machine washing: If your pillows are very dirty, you can machine wash them. However, you should only do this if your washing machine has a delicate cycle. Use a gentle detergent and a mesh laundry bag to protect your pillows.
• Drying: Allow your pillows to air dry completely. Do not put them in a dryer, as this can damage the feathers or down.

Cleaning Polyester Pillows

Polyester pillows are much easier to clean than feather and down pillows. You can simply machine wash them in cold water with a gentle detergent. Be sure to use a delicate cycle and a mesh laundry bag.

Cleaning Latex and Memory Foam Pillows

Latex and memory foam pillows should not be machine washed. Instead, you should spot clean them as needed. To spot clean a latex or memory foam pillow, use a damp cloth and a mild detergent. Gently dab at the stain until it comes out.

Special Considerations for Pillow Cleaning

Cleaning Pillows with Allergies

If you have allergies, it’s important to take extra precautions when cleaning your pillows. Dust mites are a common allergen, and they can thrive in pillows. To help prevent dust mites, you should clean your pillows regularly and use pillow protectors.

Cleaning Pillows with Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can also be a problem in pillows. If you suspect that you have bed bugs, you should take your pillows to a professional cleaner.

Cleaning Pillows with Mold

Mold can grow on pillows if they are damp or wet. If you notice mold on your pillows, you should discard them.

DIY Pillow Cleaning Solutions

If you don’t want to use commercial detergents to clean your pillows, you can make your own cleaning solutions. Here are a few DIY pillow cleaning solutions:

• Baking soda and vinegar: Mix equal parts baking soda and vinegar. Pour the mixture over your pillows and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, vacuum up the baking soda.
• Borax: Mix 1 cup of borax with 1 gallon of warm water. Submerge your pillows in the solution and let them soak for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and allow the pillows to air dry.
• Essential oils: Add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil to a load of laundry. This can help to freshen your pillows and deter pests.

Professional Pillow Cleaning Services

If you don’t have the time or energy to clean your pillows yourself, you can hire a professional cleaning service. Professional cleaners have special equipment that can clean your pillows thoroughly.

Tips for Maintaining Clean Pillows

Pillow protectors

Using pillow protectors can help to keep your pillows clean. Pillow protectors are like fitted sheets that go over your pillows. They can help to prevent dust mites, allergens, and other dirt from getting into your pillows.

Regular airing out

It’s important to air out your pillows regularly. This will help to prevent the buildup of moisture and mold. You can air out your pillows by hanging them outside or on a clothesline.

Avoiding allergens and irritants

If you have allergies, you should avoid using products that contain allergens or irritants on your pillows. This includes scented laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and air fresheners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pillow Cleaning

Can I wash my pillows in a washing machine?

Yes, you can wash most pillows in a washing machine. However, you should check the care label on your pillows to be sure.

How long should I dry my pillows?

It can take several hours for pillows to dry completely. You should allow your pillows to air dry completely before putting them back on your bed.

Can I use bleach on my pillows?

No, you should not use bleach on your pillows. Bleach can damage the fabric and cause discoloration.

Are there any natural ways to clean pillows?

Yes, there are many natural ways to clean pillows. You can use baking soda, vinegar, borax, or essential oils.

How often should I replace my pillows?

Most pillows should be replaced every 1-2 years. However, if you notice that your pillows are sagging or losing their shape, you may need to replace them sooner.