How to Clean Pillows Properly

Is it OK to wash the pillows? Absolutely, yes. Pillows go under a lot of wear and tear; they are thrown on the floor, pressed into shape, drooled on, and exposed to a buildup of sweat and oils.
Therefore, to keep your pillows fresh and clean, it's crucial to understand the frequency at which they should be laundered, how to eliminate stains, and whether they can be laundered in a machine.

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How Often Should You Wash Pillows?

Experts suggest cleaning pillows at least every three to six months. Some pillows, such as, latex and memory foam, aren't machine washable and should be cleaned occasionally or whenever there is a need.

How to Machine Wash Pillows

The majority of pillows are stuffed with cotton, feathers, down, and fiberfill, can undergo cleaning using lukewarm water on the delicate cycle in a washing machine. Regardless of the material, it is always important to check the label for cleaning instructions first, as certain pillows may come with specific washing and drying recommendations.

Remove pillowcases from the pillows.
Pour a very small amount of natural detergent on the effected areas to remove stains.
It is best to place two pillows in the washing machine, it will maintain balance during the wash.
Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar too with natural detergent in detergent despensor.
Select a mild (or sensitive cycle). Opt for cold water to avoid the filling from clumping.
After washing, remove the pillows from the washing machine and gently squeeze out excess water.
Place the pillows in the dryer with a couple of tennis balls or dryer balls to help fluff the pillows and maintain their shape.
Dry on a low heat setting to protect the filling from damage.
Check the pillows periodically during the drying process and remove them from the machine once they're completely dry.
Once dry, fluff the pillows to restore their shape.

How to Hand-Wash Pillows

Prepare to hand wash your memory foam or latex pillows by following these steps.

Start by removing the pillowcases or pillow protectors from the pillows.
fill a clean bathtub or basin with enough lukewarm water to fully submerge the pillows.
Add a small amount of natural detergent to the water, and pour in 1/2 cup of white vinegar.
Next, stir the water to ensure the detergent and vinegar are mixed thoroughly before gently placing the pillows into the water.
Gently squeeze and press the pillows, paying special attention to any stained areas. For targeted cleaning, use a soft brush.
Once the pillows have been cleaned, drain the water and refill the basin with clean water.
Rinse the pillows thoroughly until all detergent is washed out.
After rinsing, gently press out excess water from the pillows, being careful to avoid wringing or twisting them.
Lay clean towels on a flat surface, such as a countertop or a drying rack. Place the pillows on the towels to air dry, making sure they are shaped properly to maintain their form.
During the drying process, remember to rotate the pillows occasionally to ensure even drying.

How to Remove Odors From Pillows

If you notice that your pillow still hasstill has some odors after washing, you can try using sunlight to eliminate them.

It would help if you placed the pillows in direct sunlight and fresh air for a few hours.
Flip the pillows to ensure all sides are exposed to the sun. If this method doesn't work, you can use baking soda instead.
Sprinkle the pillows with baking soda and let it sit for a few hours.
After that, shake off the excess baking soda and use a vacuum with the brush attachment to remove the remaining residue.

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How Often Should You Wash Pillows?

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