Just as your sheets, pillowcases, and blankets get washed regularly, your mattress and pillows also need a good wash or clean to stay fresh, germ-free and well-maintained. However, you will wash your mattress and pillows less frequently and differently.
Pillows can contain many materials in the fill and cover, which may require different cleaning and care methods.
This article will give you the best advice and tips on washing various Pillow Types without causing damage to the pillow or reducing its functionality.
Table of Contents
Types of Pillows and Their Washing Requirements
First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand the materials of every pillow. The cover is typically made from Bamboo, cotton, or synthetic materials, which can be washed in any way. However, the pillow’s fill may present a different story altogether. This knowledge will empower you with the best cleaning decisions for your pillows, making you a knowledgeable and confident pillow caretaker.
- Memory Foam Pillows – Memory foam can easily be shredded in a washing machine and melted in a dryer at a higher heat or even in hot sunlight. Therefore, it is advised to hand wash your memory foam pillow and not fully submerge it in the water. You can choose a cooler, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for drying.
- Cotton, Feather, Fiber Fill, and Shredded Foam Pillows – Unlike solid memory foam, shredded memory foam pillows may be washed in a washing machine, along with cotton feathers and fiberfill pillows. However, I will suggest your most gentle wash cycle if that’s okay with you. Tumble drying is still not advisable, particularly for memory foam, although it is OK for cotton, feather, down, and fiber fills at a lower heat.
- Wool Pillows – You can fully submerge a wool pillow in water for hand washing or in a large washing machine to prevent the wool from clumping together. Once again, use the gentle cycle and air dry your pillow away from direct sunlight.
- Buckwheat Pillows – Never get your Buckwheat Hulls wet; remove them, wash the pillowcase or cover, and refill them again. Or you may need to wipe down the pillow with a damp cloth.
- Microbead Pillows – With Tiny Polystyrene beads making up the Fill of your Microbead pillow, washing can be very messy if there is a tear in the cover, so hand washing or gentle machine wash is advised, and a gentle tumble dry at low heat, or air drying. You can place the entire pillow in a tied-up pillowcase for extra safety.
Step By Step Washing Instructions for Cotton, Down, and Synthetic Pillows
- Remove The Casing – Remove your pillow case and the protective case or cover your pillow came with.
- Placing – Place your Pillow in the Washing Machine or container for handwashing and add warm or cold water, following the Pillow label’s instructions.
- Add Detergent – You can use your general fabric detergent and a bit of dishwashing soap for a deeper clean. Please make sure to add the right quantities for the load.
- If you are machine washing, you can start the GENTLE cycle, which is a setting on most washing machines that uses a slower and less vigorous wash action, suitable for delicate items like pillows. If not, you can hand wash your pillow.
- Rinse – For handwashing, you will need to rinse and hand dry your pillow, similar to the machine’s functioning.
- Remember that memory foam should not be in direct sunlight or a tumble dryer. This is because direct heat can cause the foam to melt or lose its shape. Ensure your pillow is completely dry before placing it back on your bed.
Washing Your Pillow Cover
Your pillow covers are usually made from natural cotton, bamboo, synthetic polyester, or microfiber. Each material has its own washing and drying requirements. Cotton and bamboo can be washed safely with normal detergents on a normal cycle, while synthetic polyester and microfiber may require more delicate care. Always follow the instructions on the labeling for the best results.
In the case of the Buckwheat Pillow, after washing the casing or cover, the Buwcheat hulls need to be replaced into the pillowcase at the loft you desire. Once again, please ensure there is no dampness as this is very bad for Buwheat and can cause mold.
Tips to Maintain Your Pillows
- Follow the Instructions – Always follow the instructions given on the label of your pillow and pillowcases to the “T” to use the correct washing method, water heat, and detergents for your pillows. Also, check for the correct drying methods for your pillow type, considering that memory foam can melt.
- Use good quality detergents and avoid harsh abrasives and bleaches if possible. Some dishwashing liquid may be safe enough to add for more intense cleaning. Some pillows may also be bleach-safe, but check the labels first. Bleach can help to whiten dull and yellow-stained pillows. By using quality products, you’re showing your pillows the care they deserve, and this will give you confidence in the cleaning process.
- Rinse properly – Ensure you rinse your pillow thoroughly, as the soap can cause a strong smell and the filling to clump and stick together.
- Dry your Pillow properly – Your pillow needs to be dry to the core before placing it back on your bed, as any wetness can become molded and dangerous eventually.
- Pillow Covers – To give your pillow extra protection and reduce how regularly you need to wash them if you need to ash them, use a protective Pillow Cover. A waterproof pillow protector cover will keep even the smallest dust and dirt particles, dust mites, and germs out of your pillow and protect it against spills, dirt, and body oils. In the end, you may only need to wash your Pillowcase. Could you replace the Protective cover if it becomes damaged because it is no longer effective?
