We spend a significant amount of time with our pillows each night, and while many of us are diligent about changing pillowcases and sheets, cleaning the pillows themselves often gets overlooked. Pillows can accumulate dust mites, sweat, oil, dead skin, and even bacteria over time, all of which can contribute to allergies, skin issues, and an overall unhygienic sleeping environment.
Regularly cleaning your pillows is essential for maintaining a healthy, comfortable, and fresh bed. Though the thought of washing your pillows might seem daunting, it’s simpler than you might think, and you don’t need to do it as frequently as your sheets. Follow these easy steps to ensure your pillows are clean, hygienic, and fresh.
Why Clean Your Pillows?
Many of us regularly wash our sheets and pillowcases, but neglect the pillows inside. Yet, over time, pillows collect various germs and debris. According to Angela Bell, a sustainable cleaning expert at Mydomain, “We spend a lot of quality time with our pillows.” Over the course of a year, your pillows can accumulate oil, sweat, dead skin cells, saliva, bacteria, and allergens like dust mites.
This buildup can not only cause issues like acne and skin irritations but also trigger allergic reactions and flare-ups. Cleaning your pillows regularly ensures a healthier sleeping environment and extends the life of the pillow itself.
How Often Should You Wash Your Pillows?
While most experts recommend washing your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week, you don’t need to wash your pillows that often. As a general rule:
- For allergy-prone individuals: Wash your pillows every 2-3 months to reduce dust mites and allergens.
- For general maintenance: Clean your pillows at least twice a year if you use good-quality pillow protectors.
How to Clean Machine-Washable Pillows
Many pillows can be cleaned in the washing machine, but it’s important to check their care labels first to ensure you’re washing them correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to machine-washing your pillows:
Things You’ll Need:
- Stain remover spray
- Laundry detergent
Step 1: Check the Care Instructions
Before washing your pillow, always check the care label. Some pillows can be machine-washed, while others (such as memory foam or latex pillows) may require special care. The care label will provide instructions on water temperature, cycle settings, and whether the pillow is suitable for machine washing.
Step 2: Spot-Treat Stains
If your pillow has visible stains—such as sweat marks or spills—it’s important to pre-treat these areas before placing the pillow in the washing machine. Use a stain remover spray and apply it directly to the stained areas. Allow the stain remover to sit for 10-15 minutes to break down the stains before proceeding to wash.
Step 3: Load the Pillow into the Washing Machine
Once the stains are pre-treated, place your pillow in the washing machine. For balance, it’s best to wash two pillows at a time, especially in a top-loading washing machine. If you’re washing only one pillow, balance it with a towel or two to prevent your machine from going off balance during the spin cycle.
Step 4: Choose a Gentle Wash Cycle
Set your washing machine to a gentle or delicate cycle, using cool or warm water, depending on the care label. Most pillows can tolerate warm water, but if you’re unsure, cool water is a safe option. Add a small amount of mild laundry detergent—avoid using too much as it can be difficult to rinse out completely.
Step 5: Extra Rinse and Spin
After the first wash cycle, run an additional rinse cycle to ensure all detergent is removed from the pillow. Leftover detergent can leave residue, making the pillow feel stiff or uncomfortable. Finally, run a second spin cycle to remove as much water as possible, which will help speed up the drying process.
Step 6: Dry Your Pillows Thoroughly
Thoroughly drying your pillows is crucial to prevent mildew or mold from developing inside them. Toss your pillows into the dryer on a low heat setting. Adding dryer balls or clean tennis balls can help fluff the pillows and prevent clumping. Be sure to check the pillows throughout the drying process and fluff them occasionally. If your pillow feels damp after one cycle, continue drying until it is completely dry.
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How to Clean Pillows by Hand Washing
Some pillows, particularly those made from foam, latex, or buckwheat, aren’t suitable for machine washing. For these pillows, hand washing is the best option. Here’s how to hand wash your pillows effectively:
Things You’ll Need:
- Stain remover spray
- Laundry detergent
- Large basin or bathtub
Step 1: Check the Care Instructions
Just like with machine-washable pillows, start by checking the care label on your pillow. Foam and latex pillows are often hand-wash only, as machine washing can damage their delicate structure.
Step 2: Remove and Wash Pillow Covers
If your pillow has a removable cover, take it off and check if it’s machine washable. Most pillow covers can be washed in the washing machine, so follow the care label and wash them separately. If the cover can only be hand washed, clean it with a mild detergent and cool water.
Step 3: Spot-Treat Stains on the Pillow
If there are visible stains on the pillow itself, use a stain remover spray to treat the spots before washing. Allow the stain remover to sit for 10-15 minutes to ensure it has time to break down the stains.
Step 4: Prepare a Soapy Solution
Fill a large basin, bathtub, or sink with lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild laundry detergent. Stir the water to create a soapy solution. Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the pillow’s material.
Step 5: Wash the Pillow
Submerge the pillow in the soapy water and gently massage the pillow to clean it. Be careful not to twist or wring the pillow, as this can damage the material. Instead, gently press the pillow to release dirt and oils.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
Once the pillow is clean, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Rinse the pillow by submerging it in the clean water and pressing out the soap. Continue rinsing and refilling the water until no suds or soap residue remain.
Step 7: Dry the Pillow
After rinsing, gently press out as much water as possible from the pillow without wringing it. Then, lay the pillow flat on a clean towel and roll the towel up to absorb excess water. For foam pillows, air drying is recommended. Place the pillow in a well-ventilated area and allow it to air dry completely. Make sure to flip and fluff the pillow periodically to help it dry evenly.
Tips for Keeping Your Pillows Clean Between Washes
While washing your pillows a few times a year is essential, there are additional steps you can take to keep them cleaner for longer:
- Use Pillow Protectors: Invest in high-quality zippered pillow protectors. These provide an extra layer of defense against dust mites, sweat, and other debris. Wash the pillow protectors regularly to keep them fresh.
- Air Out Your Pillows: Once a month, take your pillows outside on a dry, sunny day. Fresh air and sunlight help kill bacteria and eliminate odors.
- Fluff Pillows Daily: Fluffing your pillows every morning helps maintain their shape and redistribute any accumulated dust or debris.
- Replace Pillows When Necessary: No matter how well you care for your pillows, they will eventually wear out. Most experts recommend replacing pillows every 1-2 years, depending on their quality and condition.
Conclusion
Keeping your pillows clean is an important part of maintaining a healthy and comfortable sleeping environment. Whether your pillows are machine washable or need to be hand washed, following these simple steps can ensure they stay fresh and free from allergens, bacteria, and grime. Regular cleaning not only extends the life of your pillows but also improves your overall sleep quality, making your bed a more inviting place to rest. So, next time you change your sheets, don’t forget to give your pillows the care they deserve!
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